Manfred Albrecht Freiherr von Richthofen (2 May 1892 – 21 April 1918), known in English as the Red Baron, was a fighter pilot with the German Air Force during World War I. He is considered the ace-of-aces of the war, being officially credited with 80 air combat victories.

Originally a cavalryman, Richthofen transferred to the Air Service in 1915, becoming one of the first members of fighter squadron Jagdstaffel 2 in 1916. He quickly distinguished himself as a fighter pilot, and during 1917 became the leader of Jasta 11. Later he led the larger fighter wing Jagdgeschwader I, better known as "The Flying Circus". By 1918, Richthofen was regarded as a national hero in Germany, and respected by his enemies. He was kind and timid in nature, and at the same time a very strong and natural leader for whom his pilots would do anything.

Richthofen was shot down and killed near Vaux-sur-Somme on 21 April 1918. He was killed with one bullet, fired from the ground, by an Australian gunner, Sergeant Popkin. He was buried with full military honours.

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