 Ten months later, following his 101st aerial victory of the war, Ihlefeld was awarded the Knight's Cross of the Iron Cross with Oak Leaves and Swords on 24 April 1942.On 22 June 1942, Ihlefeld was appointed "Geschwaderkommodore" (wing commander) of "Jagdgeschwader" 52 (JG 52—52nd Fighter Wing).He was injured in combat on 22 July 1942 and after convalescence, he was given command of "Jagdfliegerschule" 3 (3rd Fighter Pilot School).