 In 1943 Bartels moved to "Jagdgeschwader" 27, "Afrika" to serve in the Mediterranean and Balkans theatres and by the years end had 73 victories.In 1944 he returned to the Western Front and fought Normandy Campaign in June to August 1944.Bartel's personal tally rose to 96 and he was nominated for the Oak Leaves of the Knight's Cross.