As usual Greg you are quick off the mark! Maybe I should just address all questions to you?
Just kidding.
It is amazing how one, what seems simple at the time, question leads things off on a tangent and gets everyone researching a different subject! Not complaining, just observing!
I remember reading a lot about the development of aircraft such as the me262 when doing my History project at school, many many years ago.
As implied in the articles listed above, a lot of research was wasted and/or delayed because of the politics between Hitler and his various Generals.
Hitler and/or his advisers made many mistakes in the execution of the Second World War. It would seem that Hitler himself was somewhat of a romantic and believed that fighting was a Gallant and Noble act and was better done face to face. Hence his reluctance to force home the German Military advantage at many fields of battle.
Anyway in the grand scale of things what the ME262 achieved in battle was minuscule, and as Perry stated, a lot of achievements should be taken with a big pinch of salt.
Keep the discussion going this is fascinating!
Terry