
Rise of the Valkyrie
By Kevin1230san Stewart

23 Aug, 2023

Gertrud Sternberg was an anomaly amongst the many faces of the Jagdgeschwader 2, known as the JG2. Not simply because of her status as a woman in an overwhelmingly male-dominated field, but more so, for the fervor with which she threw herself into battle.

Her dedication earned her a transfer to the elite Jagdgeschwader 52. But with the new position came new challenges, one of them being her subordinate, Pilot Officer Marseille.

Marseille's casual disregard for rank hierarchy was a constant thorn in Gertrud's side. He dismissed her as a "hard-headed siscon," adding to the tension between them.

The real blow, however, came when Gertrud received news of her younger sister, Christiane, being injured during the evacuation war. The usually stoic Gertrud found herself shaken to the core.

She watched helplessly as Christiane was plunged into a comatose state, her once vibrant demeanor reduced to a lifeless slumber. Gertrud's heart ached, her grief turning into a bitter, restless fury.

The woman who once upheld discipline and decorum now became a reckless warrior, diving into battles with a suicidal vehemence. Her comrades watched in worry, but none could penetrate the cocoon of anger she had built around herself.

One person, however, managed to challenge Gertrud's self-destructive path. Sergeant Miyafuji stepped forward, trying to pull her back from the ledge she was dangerously teetering on.

It was an uphill task to pierce through Gertrud's hardened shell. Yet, Miyafuji was relentless as she sought to remind Gertrud of the duty she held as an officer - to value her life, for those who relied on her.

Miyafuji's words were like a balm to Gertrud's tormented soul. Over time, the reckless rage that had consumed her started to simmer down, replaced by a resolution to fight with valor, not recklessness.

The first rays of hope came when Christiane showed signs of recovery. Upon hearing the news, Gertrud rushed to her sister's bedside, her heart fluttering with a mix of relief and anticipation.

Seeing Christiane awaken was a monumental moment that brought tears to Gertrud's eyes. That day, Gertrud promised to protect her sister and fight for a better world, no matter what the cost.

From then on, Gertrud would frequently visit Christiane, bringing back souvenirs from her place of deployment. The stern officer was gradually replaced by a caring sister, eager to share her experiences.

The perceived change in Gertrud's demeanor also had an effect on Marseille. He began to respect her command more, even if it was grudgingly. The two managed to form a complicated partnership.

Despite the odds, Gertrud managed to face her personal demons and emerge stronger. Her journey was a testament to her indomitable spirit, earning her the title of Valkyrie among her comrades.

Gertrud's journey is a testament to the human spirit in the face of adversity. From the stubborn officer to the resilient Valkyrie, Gertrud's story continues to inspire those around her.