Radio message to Kortrijk

“On 24 April 1918, a radio message is sent to Kortryk:

To Major Freiherr v. Richthofen

Commander of Kortryk

The painful news of the heroic death of our good cavalry captain has deeply shaken us all. The entire squadron mourns with heartfelt sympathy together with the father, mother and siblings of our proud, chivalrous commander. In the solemn vow to continue the fight as he showed it to us every day, he shall live on in us for all time as a shining example of the boldest fighter pilot spirit.

Reinhard

Captain and Squadron Leader

Major von Richthofen’s reply arrived on the same day.

To Fighter Wing I,

My proud son must live on as your role model.

Father Richthofen.”