Hermann Wilhelm Göring (also spelled Goering) was a German politician, military leader, and a leading member of the Nazi Party. Among many offices, he was Hitler's designated successor, and commander of the Luftwaffe (German Air Force). He was a veteran of the First World War as an ace fighter pilot, and a recipient of the coveted Pour le Mérite (The Blue Max). He was the last commander of Jagdgeschwader 1, the air squadron of Manfred von Richthofen, The Red Baron.