German – Messerschmitt Bf109E Yellow 8+

On its return from a mission over the Dorset coast, the aircraft was forced to traverse the island and attempt a forced landing at Bowcombe Down, west of Carisbrooke, after being bouced by a Hurricane from 145 Squadron. The particular aircraft was F/W Horst Jaenisch’s regular aircraft and had a large “Mickey Mouse” emblem with boxing gloves painted on the side.

However, in this mission,it was being piloted by a F/W Horst Hellriegel, who was given the aircraft at the last minute because his own was inoperable.

After the forced landing, he walked approximately one mile along the road before surrendering to a passing vacant coal or livestock lorry driver. Before the military patrol was able to regain control of the crash site, the aircraft was surrounded by souvenir hunters. It is believed that the aircraft was eventually displayed in Canada to assist the war effort.

 Note: Images of the aircraft displayed reflect the type of aircraft and are not those of the specific.

• http://www.luftwaffephotos.com/

• http://www.luftwaffephotos.com/
• All images are of similar aircraft and not the specific plane in question.
• Wight Air Wrecks – A T Gilliam ISBN 0-7524-2376-2
• Battle in the Skies – H J Leal (IWCP)