Krupinski was one of the best German aces in WWII and his unique fighting style was later adopted by Bubi Hartmann so that he was able to become the leading fighter pilot in the world. And surely his reckless and decisive fighting technique was that distinctive feature that made an ordinary pilot a great ace.

I just have to say that without this guy, there would be no legend of Erich Hartmann. Krupinski showed Hartmann the ropes better then anyone could have. He would gly like a crazy bastard, and that is why his and Hartmann's total are so high. He would get both of them into fights where they were highly outnumbered by still came away on top. All I can say is that although he was reckless, he was talented, very talented. He got himself into fights where he was outnumbered, but he never fought a battle he knew he couldn't win, but try convincing him that 2 Bf109s aren't a fair match for 10 Yaks. He is the type of pilot that you fear and respect, similar to Hartmann, hell, similar to everyone of this list, a fine list now I might add.