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Wernher von Braun is born.
Wernher von Braun, the father of all modern rocket science, is born in Wirsitz, Germany. -
Von Braun's thesis.
Von Braun submits the "Construction, Theoretical, and Experimental Solution to the Problem of the Liquid Propellant Rocket" thesis, which would be critical in allowing German forces to gain the upper hand in rocket technology and eventually build the V2. It was so important that it remained classified until 1960, 15 years after the war had ended and 26 years after it's first publishing. -
Von Braun joins the Allgemine SS.
Von Braun was indirectly contacted by Himmler himself and urged to join the SS. Although he'd had some prior experience in the SS, it was different now because he was automatically promoted to lieutenant. He was hesitant at first, be he eventually came to the decision that it would make realizing his dream easier if he joined. -
First sucessful V2 test.
A V2 rocket developed by von Braun is tested, reaching an altitude of 52.5 miles before crashing back to Earth. -
First V2 attacks against Paris.
The first ever use of a ballistic missile in combat. -
The final V2's.
The final 2 V2's used in combat are launched, killing only one civilian and ending the V2's reign of terror. -
Von Braun and his team surrender to the Americans.
Von Braun and his team surrender to American forces to avoid the the Soviet military and escape Germany. -
Wernher von Braun dies.
Wernher von Braun dies in Alexandria, Virginia at the age of 77.
