Date: 22nd January 1944
Time: 0450 hours.
Init: 16 Staffel/Kampfgeschwader 2
Type: Messerschmitt Me 410A-1
Werke/Nr. 3313 (from WASt report)
Code: U5 + WJ
Location: Lydd Ranges, Kent
Pilot: Hauptmann Kurt Heintz (Ritterkreuztraeger & Stk) B65118-6 Killed (Born 15.07.1912 in Neunkirchen.)
Radio/Op: Stabsfeldwebel Otto Runge (Deutsches Kreuz in Gold) 53562-77 Killed (Born 26.04.1914 in Nikoline/Schles.)
REASON FOR LOSS:
This aircraft was intercepted and shot down by F/L Luma in a Mosquito of No.488 Squadron.
The aircraft either exploded in the air or on impact , pieces of wreckage were scattered over a wide area. Badges of rank of a Hauptmann and a Feldwebel were found together with a German Cross in Gold. Identification markings found U5 + WJ, the W was in black outlined in light green.
Wnr. is thought to be 2338. Camouflage, black on the lower surfaces, remainder of the aircraft being a mottled dark green. Engines; DB 603A-2 number on the port engine 01500003, maker KWO. Starboard engine was submerged and no details could be obtained. The remainder of the equipment appeared to be in accordance with that normally found on the Me 410. One DB 603 engine recovered from crash site by the Brenzett Aeronautical Museum.
Source: WASt, A.I.(g), A.I.(k) reports.
Hptm Heintz on his wedding day
Hauptmann Kurt HeintzGrave at Folkestone and right Otto Runge grave (Details to follow - Courtesy Joe Potter)
Oberfeldwebel Otto Runge with his wife and baby
Burial Details:
Kurt Heintz lies in Folkestone New Cemetery. It is assumed that the unknown airman buried next to Heintz is that of his R/Op Otto Runge.
