Pierre Clostermann is recognized as the best French ace. He was born on February 28, 1921, in the city of Curitiba, Brazil.
Early Career and Training
After the defeat of France, Clostermann moved to England, where he graduated from RAF school in 1942. His first assignment was to the 61st Operational Training Unit, where he trained on the Spitfire aircraft. Subsequently, as a flight sergeant, he was dispatched to the 341st Free French Squadron “Alsace,” which was part of the air wing at Biggin Hill.
Aerial Victories and Rise to Command
On July 27, 1943, during a single combat sortie, he achieved his first two victories over FW 190 aircraft. From September 28, 1943, he continued his service with the 602nd “City of Glasgow” Squadron. By October 14, while providing cover for bombers attacking the Schweinfurt factories, he had already accumulated five aerial victories.
From July to November 1944, Clostermann worked at RAF headquarters. In December, he resumed flying with the 274th Squadron of the 122nd Air Wing, where, after brief training, he received a new “Tempest” aircraft and the position of “A” Flight commander. As of April 1, 1945, he commanded the 3rd Squadron, and by April 27, he was commanding the entire 122nd Air Wing.
Distinguished Service and Legacy
He finished the war as an air colonel, at only 24 years of age. In total, he achieved 33 aerial victories, including 19 FW 190s and 7 Bf 109s. Additionally, he destroyed 30 aircraft, 72 locomotives, and 225 trucks on the ground. Over three years, he conducted 432 combat missions and logged 2000 flight hours.
On August 27, 1945, at his own request, he was discharged from the air force. He was awarded more than 20 high decorations, including the Officer’s Cross of the Legion of Honour. Based on his diaries, the book “The Big Show” was written, translated into many languages, and a film of the same name was made from it. He also authored the book “Flames in the Sky.”
He passed away on March 22, 2006.