Messerschmitt 109F-4
Werknummern (serial): 8350
3./JG26
Pilot: Uffz Albert Schlager (killed)
Date: 8th August 1941
Place: near St. Omer, France

The remains of Me109F-4, Wn. 8350 of 3./JG26, were recovered from a very deep hole near St. Omer, France, by a team headed by Andy Saunders and supported by After The Battle Magazine. 8350 was shot down on 8th August 1941, in the same combat in which Douglas Bader was lost. Its pilot, Uffz Albert Schlager, bailed out but was unfortunately killed when his parachute failed. 

The wreckage was found at a great depth after the use of two diggers. Amongst the parts recovered were the tail wheel and leg, the badge from the Daimler-Benz engine, and a maker’s plate confirming the aircraft’s identity. The excavation was carried out in June 2004.