Often, upon the death of one of its members, family histories can bring up some interesting stories. Kurt P. Eckmann was born in Hamburg on August 26, 1894, and he had, apparently, a very interesting life. He told the family genealogist in 1965 that he served in the infantry for three years and was wounded 3 times. "He won his transfer from the infantry to aviation through the friendship and influence of Lieut. Ernest Udet who later became Minister of Aviation in Germany." The claim was that he flew with Von Richthofen, and there were references to his awards. He immigrated to the States and became a citizen in 1926. Any information on his war record and awards would be greatly appreciated.
