The Ace of Spades

Around the time that the third Gruppe was formed, the members of Jagdgeschwader53 elected the ‘Pik-As’ as their unit emblem. Unlike some other Geschwaders whose individual Gruppen chose their own unique emblems; JG53 elected to use the ‘Pik-As’ across all Gruppen to show the unity and brotherhood of the Geschwader.

From this time forward and throughout the duration of World War II, this distinctive insignia would adorn the aircraft of the Geschwader; providing a sense of identity and camaraderie for the Luftwaffe pilots who would serve as one of the Ace of Spades.