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{{Use American English}}
{{Use American English|date=April 2019}}
{{Use dmy dates|date=March 2012}}
{{Use dmy dates|date=October 2019}}
{{Infobox military unit
{{Infobox military unit
|unit_name= 12th Aero Squadron
|unit_name= 12th Aero Squadron
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|caption= 12th Aero Squadron – Salmson 2A2, probably at Ourches Airdrome, France
|caption= 12th Aero Squadron – Salmson 2A2, probably at Ourches Airdrome, France
|dates= 21 June 1917 – 1 June 1921
|dates= 21 June 1917 – 1 June 1921
|country={{flag|United States|23px}}
|country={{flag|United States|1912|23px}}
|allegiance=
|allegiance=
|branch= [[File:US Army Air Roundel.svg|15px]]  [[Air Service, United States Army]]
|branch= [[File:US Army Air Roundel.svg|15px]]  [[United States Army Air Service]]
|type= Squadron
|type= Squadron
|role= Corps Observation
|role= Corps Observation
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|equipment=
|equipment=
|equipment_label= Fuselage Code
|equipment_label= Fuselage Code
|battles= [[File:World War I War Service Streamer without inscription.png|150px]]<BR>[[World War I]] <BR>[[File:Army Occupation of Germany - World War I streamer.jpg|150px]]<BR>[[Occupation of the Rhineland]]
|battles= [[File:World War I War Service Streamer without inscription.png|150px]]<BR/>[[World War I]] <BR/>[[File:Army of Occupation Germany WWI.svg|150px]]<BR/>[[Occupation of the Rhineland]]
|anniversaries=
|anniversaries=
|decorations=
|decorations=
|battle_honors=
|battle_honours=
|battle_honours_label=
|battle_honours_label=
|disbanded=
|disbanded=
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|aircraft_interceptor=
|aircraft_interceptor=
|aircraft_patrol=
|aircraft_patrol=
|aircraft_recon= [[Dorand AR]]-2, 1918<BR>[[Salmson 2A2]], 1918-1919<ref name="AFHRA"/>
|aircraft_recon= [[Dorand AR]]-2, 1918<BR/>[[Salmson 2A2]], 1918–1919<ref name="AFHRA"/>
|aircraft_trainer=
|aircraft_trainer=
|aircraft_transport=
|aircraft_transport=
|aircraft_tanker=
|aircraft_tanker=
}}
}}
{{service record
{{infobox service record
|is_ship=
|is_ship=
|is_multi=
|is_multi=
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|codes=
|codes=
|commanders=
|commanders=
|operations= [[I Corps Observation Group]]<BR>Western Front, France: 30 April-11 November 1918<ref>Series "H", Section "O", Volume 29, Weekly Statistical Reports of Air Service Activities, October 1918-May 1919. Gorrell's History of the American Expeditionary Forces Air Service, 1917–1919, National Archives, Washington, D.C.{{Page needed|date=October 2014}}</ref>
|operations= [[I Corps Observation Group]]<BR/>Western Front, France: 30 April-11 November 1918<ref>Series "H", Section "O", Volume 29, Weekly Statistical Reports of Air Service Activities, October 1918 – May 1919. Gorrell's History of the American Expeditionary Forces Air Service, 1917–1919, National Archives, Washington, D.C.{{Page needed|date=October 2014}}</ref>
* Sorties: 508
* Sorties: 508
* Combat missions: 186
* Combat missions: 186
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|victories=
|victories=
* Enemy Aircraft shot down: 3<ref name=Gorrell38>Gorrell's History of the American Expeditionary Forces Air Service, Series M, Volume 38, Compilation of Confirmed Victories and Losses of the AEF Air Service as of May 26, 1919{{Page needed|date=October 2014}}</ref>
* Enemy Aircraft shot down: 3<ref name=Gorrell38>Gorrell's History of the American Expeditionary Forces Air Service, Series M, Volume 38, Compilation of Confirmed Victories and Losses of the AEF Air Service as of 26 May 1919{{Page needed|date=October 2014}}</ref>
* Enemy Balloons shot down: 0<ref name=Gorrell38/>
* Enemy Balloons shot down: 0<ref name=Gorrell38/>
* Total Enemy Aircraft Destroyed: 3<ref name=Gorrell38/>
* Total Enemy Aircraft Destroyed: 3<ref name=Gorrell38/>
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}}
}}


The '''12th Aero Squadron''' was a [[Air Service, United States Army]] unit that fought on the [[Western Front (World War I)|Western Front]] during [[World War I]].
The '''12th Aero Squadron''' was a [[United States Army Air Service]] unit that fought on the [[Western Front (World War I)|Western Front]] during [[World War I]].


The squadron was assigned as a Corps Observation Squadron, performing short-range, tactical reconnaissance over the I Corps, [[United States First Army]] sector of the Western Front in France, providing battlefield intelligence. After the [[1918 Armistice with Germany]], the squadron was assigned to the [[United States Third Army]] as part of the [[Occupation of the Rhineland]] in Germany. It returned to the United States in June 1919 and became part of the permanent [[United States Army Air Service]] in 1921, being redesignated as the 12th Squadron (Observation).<ref name="Gorrell">Series "E", Volume 3, History of the 11–13th Aero Squadrons. Gorrell's History of the American Expeditionary Forces Air Service, 1917–1919, National Archives, Washington, D.C.{{Page needed|date=October 2014}}</ref><ref name="OOB">(1988 Reprint), Order of Battle of the United States Land Forces in the First World War, Volume 3, Part 3, Center of Military History, United States Army{{Page needed|date=October 2014}}</ref>
The squadron was assigned as a Corps Observation Squadron, performing short-range, tactical reconnaissance over the I Corps, [[United States First Army]] sector of the Western Front in France, providing battlefield intelligence. After the [[1918 Armistice with Germany]], the squadron was assigned to the [[United States Third Army]] as part of the [[Occupation of the Rhineland]] in Germany. It returned to the United States in June 1919 and became part of the permanent [[United States Army Air Service]] in 1921, being redesignated as the 12th Squadron (Observation).<ref name="Gorrell">Series "E", Volume 3, History of the 11–13th Aero Squadrons. Gorrell's History of the American Expeditionary Forces Air Service, 1917–1919, National Archives, Washington, D.C.{{Page needed|date=October 2014}}</ref><ref name="OOB">(1988 Reprint), Order of Battle of the United States Land Forces in the First World War, Volume 3, Part 3, Center of Military History, United States Army{{Page needed|date=October 2014}}</ref>


The current [[United States Air Force]] unit which holds its lineage and history is the [[12th Reconnaissance Squadron]], assigned to the [[69th Reconnaissance Group]], [[Grand Forks Air Force Base, North Dakota]].<ref name="AFHRA">{{Cite web |url=http://www.afhra.af.mil/factsheets/factsheet.asp?id=9796 |title=AFHRA 12th Reconnaissance Squadron Lineage and History sheet |access-date=14 May 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110914041547/http://www.afhra.af.mil/factsheets/factsheet.asp?id=9796 |archive-date=14 September 2011 |dead-url=yes |df=dmy-all }}</ref>
The [[12th Reconnaissance Squadron]], [[United States Air Force]], now at [[Grand Forks Air Force Base, North Dakota]], traces its lineage and history to the 12th Aero Squadron.<ref name="AFHRA">{{Cite web |url=http://www.afhra.af.mil/factsheets/factsheet.asp?id=9796 |title=AFHRA 12th Reconnaissance Squadron Lineage and History sheet |access-date=14 May 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110914041547/http://www.afhra.af.mil/factsheets/factsheet.asp?id=9796 |archive-date=14 September 2011 |url-status=dead }}</ref>


==History==
==History==
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After several weeks of classes on aircraft engines and parts, the squadron went to [[Wilbur Wright Field]] at Fairfield, Ohio. Arriving on 5 July 1917, the men began assembling [[Standard J-1]] and [[Curtiss JN-4]] training airplanes shipped direct from the factory, and they took part in the training of the flying cadets that began pouring into the field in late July. The squadron’s first flight is supposed to have been made by a Captain Christy on 17 July 1917 in a Curtiss JN-4 "Jenny".<ref Name="H12RS"/>
After several weeks of classes on aircraft engines and parts, the squadron went to [[Wilbur Wright Field]] at Fairfield, Ohio. Arriving on 5 July 1917, the men began assembling [[Standard J-1]] and [[Curtiss JN-4]] training airplanes shipped direct from the factory, and they took part in the training of the flying cadets that began pouring into the field in late July. The squadron’s first flight is supposed to have been made by a Captain Christy on 17 July 1917 in a Curtiss JN-4 "Jenny".<ref Name="H12RS"/>


At the end of October, preparations for overseas movement were made. The squadron left Wright Field on 31 October, for the Aviation Concentration Center, [[Camp Mills]], Garden City, New York, arriving at Field #1 on 2 November. At Garden City, the squadron remained for about a month awaiting transportation. On 5 December it boarded the [[SS Northland]] sailing from [[Philadelphia]]. After a week waiting at [[Halifax Regional Municipality|Halifax]] Nova Scotia, the trans-Atlantic crossing was made without incident, and the ship arrived at [[Liverpool]], England on 25 December. The squadron then took a train to [[Southampton]], and made the cross-channel crossing to [[Le Havre]], France, arriving at a British Rest Camp the next day. After a few days, it was moved by a French train south to the large American base at [[St. Maixent Aerodrome]] on 1 January 1918.<ref name="Gorrell">Series "E", Volume 3, History of the 11–13th Aero Squadrons. Gorrell's History of the American Expeditionary Forces Air Service, 1917–1919, National Archives, Washington, D.C.{{Page needed|date=October 2014}}</ref>
At the end of October, preparations for overseas movement were made. The squadron left Wright Field on 31 October, for the Aviation Concentration Center, [[Camp Mills]], Garden City, New York, arriving at Field No. 1 on 2 November. At Garden City, the squadron remained for about a month awaiting transportation. On 5 December it boarded the {{SS|Northland}} sailing from [[Philadelphia]]. After a week waiting at [[Halifax Regional Municipality|Halifax]] Nova Scotia, the trans-Atlantic crossing was made without incident, and the ship arrived at [[Liverpool]], England on 25 December. The squadron then took a train to [[Southampton]], and made the cross-channel crossing to [[Le Havre]], France, arriving at a British Rest Camp the next day. After a few days, it was moved by a French train south to the large American base at [[St. Maixent Aerodrome]] on 1 January 1918.<ref name="Gorrell">Series "E", Volume 3, History of the 11–13th Aero Squadrons. Gorrell's History of the American Expeditionary Forces Air Service, 1917–1919, National Archives, Washington, D.C.{{Page needed|date=October 2014}}</ref>


After two weeks at St. Maixent, where the squadron largely performed guard duty and drills, orders were received to move to [[Chaumont-sur-Aire_Airdrome|Chaumont-Hill 402 Aerodrome]], arriving on 16 January. where its mechanics took charge of maintenance on French [[Nieuport]]s and [[Société Pour L'Aviation et ses Dérivés|SPAD]] aircraft. On 2 February, the 12th finally began its combat training, being moved to [[Amanty Airdrome]] in Lorraine where it joined the [[1st Aero Squadron|1st]], [[91st Aero Squadron|91st]] and [[88th Aero Squadron]]s. At Amanty, the squadron was equipped with [[Dorand AR|Avion de Reconnaissance 1 (AR 1)]] trainers. classes were held in radio and machine-gun work and ground training was conducted by French officers. In addition the squadron helped in airfield construction projects. The AR-1s were inferior, obsolete machines, called "Antique Rattletraps" by the pilots, which the French had retired to training duties. However, they were suitable for training and after several weeks of making do with the training provided, on 3 May orders were received to head to the front, being assigned to the [[I Corps Observation Group]] at [[Ourches Aerodrome]], where the 12th was designated as a Corps Observation squadron.<ref Name="H12RS"/><ref name="Gorrell"/>
After two weeks at St. Maixent, where the squadron largely performed guard duty and drills, orders were received to move to [[Chaumont-sur-Aire Airdrome|Chaumont-Hill 402 Aerodrome]], arriving on 16 January. where its mechanics took charge of maintenance on French [[Nieuport]]s and [[Société Pour L'Aviation et ses Dérivés|SPAD]] aircraft. On 2 February, the 12th finally began its combat training, being moved to [[Amanty Airdrome]] in Lorraine where it joined the [[1st Aero Squadron|1st]], [[91st Aero Squadron|91st]] and [[88th Aero Squadron]]s. At Amanty, the squadron was equipped with [[Dorand AR|Avion de Reconnaissance 1 (AR 1)]] trainers. classes were held in radio and machine-gun work and ground training was conducted by French officers. In addition the squadron helped in airfield construction projects. The AR-1s were inferior, obsolete machines, called "Antique Rattletraps" by the pilots, which the French had retired to training duties. However, they were suitable for training and after several weeks of making do with the training provided, on 3 May orders were received to head to the front, being assigned to the [[I Corps Observation Group]] at [[Ourches Aerodrome]], where the 12th was designated as a Corps Observation squadron.<ref Name="H12RS"/><ref name="Gorrell"/>


====Combat in France====
====Combat in France====
At Ourches, the 12th joined the 1st Aero Squadron and began active operations over the front. It was equipped with [[SPAD S.XI]]A.2s aircraft. In combat, the mission of the 12th Aero Squadron was general surveillance of the enemy rear areas by means of both visual and photographic reconnaissance. These missions were carried out for the purpose of intelligence-gathering and informing [[United States First Army|First Army]] headquarters informed of enemy movements and preparations for attacks or retreats of its infantry forces. The 12th identified enemy activity along roads and railroads, ground stations, various storage dumps and airfields; the numbers of fires and activities of enemy aircraft, and the amount of anti-aircraft artillery was also monitored and reported. Due to the nature of the missions and the depths of enemy area which was penetrated, the missions were carried out at high altitudes, usually between 4,500 and 5,500 meters.<ref name="Gorrell"/>
At Ourches, the 12th joined the 1st Aero Squadron and began active operations over the front. It was equipped with [[SPAD S.XI]]A.2s aircraft. In combat, the mission of the 12th Aero Squadron was general surveillance of the enemy rear areas by means of both visual and photographic reconnaissance. These missions were carried out for the purpose of intelligence-gathering and informing [[United States First Army|First Army]] headquarters informed of enemy movements and preparations for attacks or retreats of its infantry forces. The 12th identified enemy activity along roads and railroads, ground stations, various storage dumps and airfields; the numbers of fires and activities of enemy aircraft, and the amount of anti-aircraft artillery was also monitored and reported. Due to the nature of the missions and the depths of enemy area which was penetrated, the missions were carried out at high altitudes, usually between 4,500 and 5,500 meters.<ref name="Gorrell"/>
[[File:12th Aero Squadron Salmson 2A2.jpg|thumb|left|Newly received 12th Aero Squadron Salmson 2A2]]
[[File:12th Aero Squadron Salmson 2A2.jpg|thumb|left|Newly received 12th Aero Squadron Salmson 2A2]]
With few exceptions, the 12th’s pilots had never flown combat, but most of the observers had spent a number of weeks flying with French squadrons on active missions. One of these, Lieutenant Stephen W. Thompson, was at the 1st Squadron Gunnery School at [[Cazaux Airdrome]], near Bordeaux when he was loaned on 5 February to the 123d French Breguet Squadron due to a shortage of observers in that unit. Returning from a bombing raid on [[Saarbruken]], the aircraft in which Lt Thompson was operating the rear guns was attacked by German [[Albatros Flugzeugwerke|Albatross]] pursuit ships. He shot one down, becoming the first man in an American uniform to shoot down an enemy airplane. Later, on 28 July 1918, as a member of the 12th, he was credited with two more "kills."<ref Name="H12RS"/>
With few exceptions, the 12th’s pilots had never flown combat, but most of the observers had spent a number of weeks flying with French squadrons on active missions. One of these, Lieutenant Stephen W. Thompson, was at the 1st Squadron Gunnery School at [[Cazaux Airdrome]], near Bordeaux when he was loaned on 5 February to the 123d French Breguet Squadron due to a shortage of observers in that unit. Returning from a bombing raid on [[Saarbrücken]], the aircraft in which Lt Thompson was operating the rear guns was attacked by German [[Albatros Flugzeugwerke|Albatross]] pursuit ships. He shot one down, becoming the first man in an American uniform to shoot down an enemy airplane. Later, on 28 July 1918, as a member of the 12th, he was credited with two more "kills."<ref Name="H12RS"/>


The 12th’s operations in the Toul Sector was a seasoning period for the squadron as it gained experience over a relatively inactive front with almost no enemy air opposition. "On the other hand," according to an Air Service report after the war, "the enemy antiaircraft fire in the sector was exceedingly dense, active and accurate. Pilots of the Group were adept at evading antiaircraft fire after a month in the sector." On 10 June, the 12th Aero Squadron moved to the Baccarat Sector and to the unfinished [[Flin Aerodrome]], from which they supported the 42d American and 167th French Divisions. There, the 12th began to receive the latest in French observation aircraft, the [[Salmson 2A2]]. This front, too, was considered "stabilized" or quiet, but the opposing German air force, while not flying the latest types, was active and aggressive. The 12th flew visual and photographic reconnaissance, adjusted artillery fire, and staged "infantry-contact patrols" to locate the front lines.<ref Name="H12RS"/><ref name="Gorrell"/>
The 12th’s operations in the Toul Sector was a seasoning period for the squadron as it gained experience over a relatively inactive front with almost no enemy air opposition. "On the other hand," according to an Air Service report after the war, "the enemy antiaircraft fire in the sector was exceedingly dense, active and accurate. Pilots of the Group were adept at evading antiaircraft fire after a month in the sector." On 10 June, the 12th Aero Squadron moved to the Baccarat Sector and to the unfinished [[Flin Aerodrome]], from which they supported the 42d American and 167th French Divisions. There, the 12th began to receive the latest in French observation aircraft, the [[Salmson 2A2]]. This front, too, was considered "stabilized" or quiet, but the opposing German air force, while not flying the latest types, was active and aggressive. The 12th flew visual and photographic reconnaissance, adjusted artillery fire, and staged "infantry-contact patrols" to locate the front lines.<ref Name="H12RS"/><ref name="Gorrell"/>


=====Battle of Château-Thierry=====
=====Battle of Château-Thierry=====
[[File:12th Aero Squadron Salmson 2A2-2.jpg|thumb|12th Aero Squadron Salmson 2A2, Julvecourt Airdrome, France, November 1918]]
[[File:12th Aero Squadron Salmson 2A2-2.jpg|thumb|12th Aero Squadron Salmson 2A2, Julvecourt Airdrome, France, November 1918]]
By 29 June, the squadron had relocated to [[Saints Aerodrome]] in the Marne Sector to participate in the [[Battle of Château-Thierry (1918)|Battle of Château-Thierry]]. The 12th encountered intense opposition in the air from a concentration of German squadrons equipped with the most advanced [[Fokker]] aircraft. Encounters with up to 20 enemy aircraft on a patrol was a daily occurrence. On 5 July, the squadron moved again to a neighboring field at [[Francheville Aerodrome|Francheville]] in support of the 26th Division, but because of its distance from the front, what would later be known as a "forward operating location," or FOL, was established at [[Ferme de Moras Aerodrome]]. Two 12th Squadron aircraft and two from the [[88th Aero Squadron]] were flown to it at daybreak each day and held ready for developing requirements. The Allied counteroffensive was launched on 18 July and the squadron's support was vital in photographing targets ahead of the advance according to priorities set by corps intelligence. It was during this operation that oblique photography, sometimes from as low as 400 meters, began to be used; previously all photos had been vertical. The Ferme de Moras location was upgraded to a full airfield on 22 July when the squadron occupied it to participate in the Chateau-Thierry offensive, during which it lost five officers.<ref Name="H12RS"/>
By 29 June, the squadron had relocated to [[Saints Aerodrome]] in the Marne Sector to participate in the [[Battle of Château-Thierry (1918)|Battle of Château-Thierry]]. The 12th encountered intense opposition in the air from a concentration of German squadrons equipped with the most advanced [[Fokker]] aircraft. Encounters with up to 20 enemy aircraft on a patrol was a daily occurrence. On 5 July, the squadron moved again to a neighboring field at [[Francheville Aerodrome|Francheville]] in support of the 26th Division, but because of its distance from the front, what would later be known as a "forward operating location," or FOL, was established at [[Ferme de Moras Aerodrome]]. Two 12th Squadron aircraft and two from the [[88th Aero Squadron]] were flown to it at daybreak each day and held ready for developing requirements. The Allied counteroffensive was launched on 18 July and the squadron's support was vital in photographing targets ahead of the advance according to priorities set by corps intelligence. It was during this operation that oblique photography, sometimes from as low as 400 meters, began to be used; previously all photos had been vertical. The Ferme de Moras location was upgraded to a full airfield on 22 July when the squadron occupied it to participate in the Chateau-Thierry offensive, during which it lost five officers.<ref Name="H12RS"/> On 28 July 1918 the Squadron had two Salmson Observation aircraft shot down near Villers Sur Fere:2/Lt AP Baker WIA/PoW and 2/Lt JC Lumsden KIA, {shot down by German ace [[Carl Bolle (flying ace)|Carl Bolle]] (27th victory); and Pilot John C. Miller died of wounds and Observer Lt. Stephen W. Thompson was shot in the leg.(Shot down by Lt Sergy Frommherz, (10th Victory) of [[Jagdstaffel 2]]<ref>[https://www.greatwarforum.org/topic/284830-us-air-service-vs-german-air-service-1918/ Great War]</ref>


=====St. Mihiel offensive=====
=====St. Mihiel offensive=====
In the first half of August, the unit moved three times, finally being withdrawn from the sector on 12 August for a brief rest at [[Chailly-en-Brie Aerodrome]]. The 12th moved to [[Toul-Croix_de_Metz_Airfield|Croix de Metz Airdrome]] near [[Toul]] on 23 August and operated in support of the [[St. Mihiel offensive]]. During that offensive, 12–13 September, the unit was equipped with 16 additional Salmsons and flew continuously to support the rapidly advancing 5th Division. Two aircraft, one piloted by [[Lewis H. Brereton|Major Lewis Brereton]], commander of the I Corps Observation Group and former 12th C.O., were lost, but all four crewmembers survived after landing inside friendly lines. Immediately after the St. Mihiel salient was reduced, the squadron was assigned to support the 90th Division.<ref Name="H12RS"/>
In the first half of August, the unit moved three times, finally being withdrawn from the sector on 12 August for a brief rest at [[Chailly-en-Brie Aerodrome]]. The 12th moved to [[Toul-Croix de Metz Airfield|Croix de Metz Airdrome]] near [[Toul]] on 23 August and operated in support of the [[St. Mihiel offensive]]. During that offensive, 12–13 September, the unit was equipped with 16 additional Salmsons and flew continuously to support the rapidly advancing 5th Division. Two aircraft, one piloted by [[Lewis H. Brereton|Major Lewis Brereton]], commander of the I Corps Observation Group and former 12th C.O., were lost, but all four crewmembers survived after landing inside friendly lines. Immediately after the St. Mihiel salient was reduced, the squadron was assigned to support the 90th Division.<ref Name="H12RS"/>


=====Meuse-Argonne offensive=====
=====Meuse-Argonne offensive=====
[[File:12th Aero Squadron.jpg|thumb|left|Squadron photograph, probably taken at Julvecourt in November 1918 after the armistice]]
[[File:12th Aero Squadron.jpg|thumb|right|250px|Squadron photograph, probably taken at Julvecourt in November 1918 after the armistice]]
On 20 September, the 12th was transferred to [[Remicourt Aerodrome]] to prepare for the [[Meuse-Argonne offensive]] which began on 26 September. During the Argonne operation the 12th Aero Squadron was very much in demand. One morning after many assignments had been made, a call came in for a photographic mission. Five planes were ordered for the flight, but only four observers were available. Eddie Foy, a radio officer, volunteered to serve as an observer for the mission. The planes encountered a large formation of Germans near the target and three were shot down, one carrying Eddie Foy, who had been wounded. It is believed that he had the distinction of being the only non-flyer in the Air Service to be wounded and taken prisoner as a result of aerial combat.<ref Name="H12RS"/>
On 20 September, the 12th was transferred to [[Remicourt Aerodrome]] to prepare for the [[Meuse-Argonne offensive]] which began on 26 September. During the Argonne operation the 12th Aero Squadron was very much in demand. One morning after many assignments had been made, a call came in for a photographic mission. Five planes were ordered for the flight, but only four observers were available. Eddie Foy, a radio officer, volunteered to serve as an observer for the mission. The planes encountered a large formation of Germans near the target and three were shot down, one carrying Eddie Foy, who had been wounded. It is believed that he had the distinction of being the only non-flyer in the Air Service to be wounded and taken prisoner as a result of aerial combat.<ref Name="H12RS"/>


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====Demobilization====
====Demobilization====
The squadron received orders from Third Army on 16 April 1919 to demobilize. It was ordered to report to the 1st Air Depot at [[Colombey-les-Belles Airdrome]], to turn in all of its supplies and equipment and was relieved from duty with the AEF. The squadron's Salmson aircraft were delivered to the American Air Service Acceptance Park No. 1 at [[Orly Air Base|Orly Aerodrome]] to be returned to the French. There practically all of the pilots and observers were detached from the Squadron.<ref name="Gorrell2">Series "O", Volume 22, Weekly Statistical Reports on progress of Air Service Activities, October 1918-May 1919. Gorrell's History of the American Expeditionary Forces Air Service, 1917–1919, National Archives, Washington, D.C.{{Page needed|date=October 2014}}</ref>
The squadron received orders from Third Army on 16 April 1919 to demobilize. It was ordered to report to the 1st Air Depot at [[Colombey-les-Belles Airdrome]], to turn in all of its supplies and equipment and was relieved from duty with the AEF. The squadron's Salmson aircraft were delivered to the American Air Service Acceptance Park No. 1 at [[Orly Air Base|Orly Aerodrome]] to be returned to the French. There practically all of the pilots and observers were detached from the squadron.<ref name="Gorrell2">Series "O", Volume 22, Weekly Statistical Reports on progress of Air Service Activities, October 1918 – May 1919. Gorrell's History of the American Expeditionary Forces Air Service, 1917–1919, National Archives, Washington, D.C.{{Page needed|date=October 2014}}</ref>


Personnel at Colombey were subsequently assigned to the Commanding General, Services of Supply and ordered to report to the [[Le Mans, France]], staging camp on 5 May 1919. There, personnel awaited scheduling to report to one of the Base Ports in France for transport to the United States and subsequent demobilization.<ref name="Demob">Series "D", Weekly Statistical Reports of Air Service Activities, October 1918-May 1919. Gorrell's History of the American Expeditionary Forces Air Service, 1917–1919, National Archives, Washington, D.C.{{Page needed|date=October 2014}}</ref> Orders were received to report to the port at [[Brest, France]], 20 May. It sailed aboard the USS Liberator on 3 June, the 12th arrived at Garden City, New York, on 17 June 1919. There, most members of the squadron were demobilized and returned to civilian life.<ref Name="H12RS"/><ref name="OOB"/>
Personnel at Colombey were subsequently assigned to the Commanding General, Services of Supply and ordered to report to the [[Le Mans, France]], staging camp on 5 May 1919. There, personnel awaited scheduling to report to one of the Base Ports in France for transport to the United States and subsequent demobilization.<ref name="Demob">Series "D", Weekly Statistical Reports of Air Service Activities, October 1918 – May 1919. Gorrell's History of the American Expeditionary Forces Air Service, 1917–1919, National Archives, Washington, D.C.{{Page needed|date=October 2014}}</ref> Orders were received to report to the port at [[Brest, France]], 20 May. The squadron sailed aboard the {{USS|Liberator}} on 3 June, arriving at [[Garden City, New York|Garden City]], New York, on 17 June 1919. There, most members of the squadron were demobilized and returned to civilian life.<ref Name="H12RS"/><ref name="OOB"/>


==Lineage==
==Lineage==
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* [[Aviation Concentration Center]], Garden City, New York, 2 November – 3 December 1917
* [[Aviation Concentration Center]], Garden City, New York, 2 November – 3 December 1917
* Port of Entry, [[Philadelphia, Pennsylvania]]
* Port of Entry, [[Philadelphia, Pennsylvania]]
:: Overseas transport, [[SS Northland]], 5–25 December 1918
:: Overseas transport, {{SS|Northland}}, 5–25 December 1918
* [[Liverpool]], England, 25 December 1917
* [[Liverpool]], England, 25 December 1917
* [[St. Maixent Replacement Barracks]], France, 1 January 1918
* [[St. Maixent Replacement Barracks]], France, 1 January 1918
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* [[Coincy Aerodrome]], France, 10 August 1918
* [[Coincy Aerodrome]], France, 10 August 1918
* [[Chailly-en-Brie Aerodrome]], France, 12 August 1918
* [[Chailly-en-Brie Aerodrome]], France, 12 August 1918
* [[Toul-Croix_de_Metz_Airfield|Croix de Metz Airdrome]], France, 22 August 1918
* [[Toul-Croix de Metz Airfield|Croix de Metz Airdrome]], France, 22 August 1918
* [[Remicourt Aerodrome]], France, 20 September 1918
* [[Remicourt Aerodrome]], France, 20 September 1918
* [[Julvecourt Airdrome]], France, 3 November 1918
* [[Julvecourt Airdrome]], France, 3 November 1918
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===Combat sectors and campaigns===
===Combat sectors and campaigns===
{| class="wikitable"
{| class="wikitable"
|- bgcolor="#efefef"
! Streamer !! Sector/Campaign !! Dates !! Notes
! Streamer !! Sector/Campaign !! Dates !! Notes
|-
|-
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{{Col-begin}}
{{Col-begin}}
{{Col-break|width=50%}}
{{Col-break|width=50%}}
* [https://cualumni.clemson.edu/clemson-corps-scroll-d-arthur---wwi Capt. Dogan H. Arthur, DSC (2x), 3 aerial victories] {WIA}
* Capt. Dogan H. Arthur, DSC (2x), 3 aerial victories {WIA}
* Lt. Samuel A. Bowman, DSC
* Lt. Samuel A. Bowman, DSC
* Lt. Clinton S. Breese, DSC, SSC
* Lt. Clinton S. Breese, DSC, SSC
* Maj. [[Lewis H. Brereton]], DSC
* Maj. [[Lewis H. Brereton]], DSC
* Lt. Robert L. Davidson, SSC (2x)
* Lt. Robert L. Davidson, SSC (2x)
* [https://www.findagrave.com/cgi-bin/fg.cgi?page=gr&GSln=fleeson&GSfn=howard&GSmn=t&GSbyrel=all&GSdyrel=all&GSob=n&GRid=50329070&df=all& Lt. Howard T. Fleeson, DSC (2x), 3 aerial victories]
* Lt. Howard T. Fleeson, DSC (2x), 3 aerial victories
* Lt. Justin P. Follette, DSC
* Lt. Justin P. Follette, DSC
* Lt. Clifford E. Gregory, SSC
* Lt. Clifford E. Gregory, SSC
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{{Col-break|width=50%}}
{{Col-break|width=50%}}
* Capt. Stephen H. Noyes, DSC
* Capt. Stephen H. Noyes, DSC
* [https://www.findagrave.com/cgi-bin/fg.cgi?page=pv&GRid=56341545&PIpi=21552396 Lt. Edward Orr, DSC, (KIA)]
* Lt. Edward Orr, DSC, (KIA)
* Lt. Frank Over, Jr., SSC
* Lt. Frank Over Jr., SSC
* Lt. Maurice C. Owen, SSC
* Lt. Maurice C. Owen, SSC
* Lt. Robert C. Paradise, DSC, SSC
* Lt. Robert C. Paradise, DSC, SSC
* [https://www.findagrave.com/cgi-bin/fg.cgi?page=gr&GSln=saunders&GSfn=william&GSmn=h&GSbyrel=all&GSdy=1919&GSdyrel=in&GSob=n&GRid=112836330&df=all& Capt. William H. Saunders, DSC, SSC, (KIFA)]
* Capt. William H. Saunders, DSC, SSC, (KIFA)
* Lt. Eugene E. Stuck, SSC
* Lt. Eugene E. Stuck, SSC
* Lt. Cassius H. Styles, SSC
* Lt. Cassius H. Styles, SSC
* Lt. Sigourney Thayer, SSC
* Lt. Sigourney Thayer, SSC
* Lt. William C. Thomas, SSC
* Lt. William C. Thomas, SSC

* Lt. [[Stephen W. Thompson]], 3 aerial Victories, [[Croix de guerre]] with palm (WIA)
* Lt. [[Stephen W. Thompson]], 3 aerial Victories, [[Croix de Guerre]] with palm (WIA)
* Lt. Burdette S. Wright, DSC, SSC
* Lt. Burdette S. Wright, DSC, SSC
{{col-end}}
{{col-end}}
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==See also==
==See also==

{{Portal|United States Air Force|Military of the United States|World War I}}
* [[Organization of the Air Service of the American Expeditionary Force]]
* [[Organization of the Air Service of the American Expeditionary Force]]
* [[List of American Aero Squadrons]]
* [[List of American aero squadrons]]


==References==
==References==
{{Air Force Historical Research Agency}}
{{Air Force Historical Research Agency}}

⚫
{{Commons category}}
{{Reflist}}
{{Reflist}}
{{refbegin}}
{{refend}}


==External links==
==External links==
*[https://digitalcollections.museumofflight.org/collections/show/241 Wilbur D. Kennedy Collection] at The Museum of Fight Digital Collections - materials related to the World War I career of Kennedy, a reconnaissance pilot for the 12th Aero Squadron (American Expeditionary Force).
⚫
{{Commons category|12th Aero Squadron}}
{{US Air Force navbox}}
{{Wwi-air}}


[[Category:20th-century military history of the United States]]
[[Category:Squadrons of the United States Army Air Service]]
[[Category:Aviation units and formations of the United States in World War I|012]]
[[Category:Squadrons of the United States Army Air Service in World War I|012]]

Latest revision as of 21:18, 1 August 2024

12th Aero Squadron
12th Aero Squadron – Salmson 2A2, probably at Ourches Airdrome, France
Active21 June 1917 – 1 June 1921
Country United States
Branch  United States Army Air Service
TypeSquadron
RoleCorps Observation
Part ofAmerican Expeditionary Forces (AEF)
Engagements
World War I

Occupation of the Rhineland
Commanders
Notable
commanders		Maj. L. C. Heffernan[1]
Insignia
12th Aero Squadron Emblem
Aircraft flown
ReconnaissanceDorand AR-2, 1918
Salmson 2A2, 1918–1919[2]
Service record
Operations

I Corps Observation Group
Western Front, France: 30 April-11 November 1918[3]

  • Sorties: 508
  • Combat missions: 186
  • Enemy combats: 83
  • Killed: 3 Pilots, 1 Observer
  • Wounded: 1 Pilot, 5 Observers
  • Missing: 1 Pilot, 2 Observers
  • Aircraft lost: Not Recorded [1]
Victories
  • Enemy Aircraft shot down: 3[4]
  • Enemy Balloons shot down: 0[4]
  • Total Enemy Aircraft Destroyed: 3[4]

    • The 12th Aero Squadron was a United States Army Air Service unit that fought on the Western Front during World War I.

    The squadron was assigned as a Corps Observation Squadron, performing short-range, tactical reconnaissance over the I Corps, United States First Army sector of the Western Front in France, providing battlefield intelligence. After the 1918 Armistice with Germany, the squadron was assigned to the United States Third Army as part of the Occupation of the Rhineland in Germany. It returned to the United States in June 1919 and became part of the permanent United States Army Air Service in 1921, being redesignated as the 12th Squadron (Observation).[1][5]

    The 12th Reconnaissance Squadron, United States Air Force, now at Grand Forks Air Force Base, North Dakota, traces its lineage and history to the 12th Aero Squadron.[2]

    History

    [edit]

    World War I

    [edit]

    The 12th Reconnaissance Squadron originated at Kelly Field, Texas in May 1917 when the unit was organized from men picked from about 5,000 aviation recruits being drilled in provisional training companies. Those men formed "H" Company and were selected for their mechanical ability and experience. On 2 June, the unit was given its official designation, 12th Aero Squadron.[6]

    After several weeks of classes on aircraft engines and parts, the squadron went to Wilbur Wright Field at Fairfield, Ohio. Arriving on 5 July 1917, the men began assembling Standard J-1 and Curtiss JN-4 training airplanes shipped direct from the factory, and they took part in the training of the flying cadets that began pouring into the field in late July. The squadron’s first flight is supposed to have been made by a Captain Christy on 17 July 1917 in a Curtiss JN-4 "Jenny".[6]

    At the end of October, preparations for overseas movement were made. The squadron left Wright Field on 31 October, for the Aviation Concentration Center, Camp Mills, Garden City, New York, arriving at Field No. 1 on 2 November. At Garden City, the squadron remained for about a month awaiting transportation. On 5 December it boarded the SS Northland sailing from Philadelphia. After a week waiting at Halifax Nova Scotia, the trans-Atlantic crossing was made without incident, and the ship arrived at Liverpool, England on 25 December. The squadron then took a train to Southampton, and made the cross-channel crossing to Le Havre, France, arriving at a British Rest Camp the next day. After a few days, it was moved by a French train south to the large American base at St. Maixent Aerodrome on 1 January 1918.[1]

    After two weeks at St. Maixent, where the squadron largely performed guard duty and drills, orders were received to move to Chaumont-Hill 402 Aerodrome, arriving on 16 January. where its mechanics took charge of maintenance on French Nieuports and SPAD aircraft. On 2 February, the 12th finally began its combat training, being moved to Amanty Airdrome in Lorraine where it joined the 1st, 91st and 88th Aero Squadrons. At Amanty, the squadron was equipped with Avion de Reconnaissance 1 (AR 1) trainers. classes were held in radio and machine-gun work and ground training was conducted by French officers. In addition the squadron helped in airfield construction projects. The AR-1s were inferior, obsolete machines, called "Antique Rattletraps" by the pilots, which the French had retired to training duties. However, they were suitable for training and after several weeks of making do with the training provided, on 3 May orders were received to head to the front, being assigned to the I Corps Observation Group at Ourches Aerodrome, where the 12th was designated as a Corps Observation squadron.[6][1]

    Combat in France

    [edit]

    At Ourches, the 12th joined the 1st Aero Squadron and began active operations over the front. It was equipped with SPAD S.XIA.2s aircraft. In combat, the mission of the 12th Aero Squadron was general surveillance of the enemy rear areas by means of both visual and photographic reconnaissance. These missions were carried out for the purpose of intelligence-gathering and informing First Army headquarters informed of enemy movements and preparations for attacks or retreats of its infantry forces. The 12th identified enemy activity along roads and railroads, ground stations, various storage dumps and airfields; the numbers of fires and activities of enemy aircraft, and the amount of anti-aircraft artillery was also monitored and reported. Due to the nature of the missions and the depths of enemy area which was penetrated, the missions were carried out at high altitudes, usually between 4,500 and 5,500 meters.[1]

    Newly received 12th Aero Squadron Salmson 2A2

    With few exceptions, the 12th’s pilots had never flown combat, but most of the observers had spent a number of weeks flying with French squadrons on active missions. One of these, Lieutenant Stephen W. Thompson, was at the 1st Squadron Gunnery School at Cazaux Airdrome, near Bordeaux when he was loaned on 5 February to the 123d French Breguet Squadron due to a shortage of observers in that unit. Returning from a bombing raid on Saarbrücken, the aircraft in which Lt Thompson was operating the rear guns was attacked by German Albatross pursuit ships. He shot one down, becoming the first man in an American uniform to shoot down an enemy airplane. Later, on 28 July 1918, as a member of the 12th, he was credited with two more "kills."[6]

    The 12th’s operations in the Toul Sector was a seasoning period for the squadron as it gained experience over a relatively inactive front with almost no enemy air opposition. "On the other hand," according to an Air Service report after the war, "the enemy antiaircraft fire in the sector was exceedingly dense, active and accurate. Pilots of the Group were adept at evading antiaircraft fire after a month in the sector." On 10 June, the 12th Aero Squadron moved to the Baccarat Sector and to the unfinished Flin Aerodrome, from which they supported the 42d American and 167th French Divisions. There, the 12th began to receive the latest in French observation aircraft, the Salmson 2A2. This front, too, was considered "stabilized" or quiet, but the opposing German air force, while not flying the latest types, was active and aggressive. The 12th flew visual and photographic reconnaissance, adjusted artillery fire, and staged "infantry-contact patrols" to locate the front lines.[6][1]

    Battle of Château-Thierry
    [edit]
    12th Aero Squadron Salmson 2A2, Julvecourt Airdrome, France, November 1918

    By 29 June, the squadron had relocated to Saints Aerodrome in the Marne Sector to participate in the Battle of Château-Thierry. The 12th encountered intense opposition in the air from a concentration of German squadrons equipped with the most advanced Fokker aircraft. Encounters with up to 20 enemy aircraft on a patrol was a daily occurrence. On 5 July, the squadron moved again to a neighboring field at Francheville in support of the 26th Division, but because of its distance from the front, what would later be known as a "forward operating location," or FOL, was established at Ferme de Moras Aerodrome. Two 12th Squadron aircraft and two from the 88th Aero Squadron were flown to it at daybreak each day and held ready for developing requirements. The Allied counteroffensive was launched on 18 July and the squadron's support was vital in photographing targets ahead of the advance according to priorities set by corps intelligence. It was during this operation that oblique photography, sometimes from as low as 400 meters, began to be used; previously all photos had been vertical. The Ferme de Moras location was upgraded to a full airfield on 22 July when the squadron occupied it to participate in the Chateau-Thierry offensive, during which it lost five officers.[6] On 28 July 1918 the Squadron had two Salmson Observation aircraft shot down near Villers Sur Fere:2/Lt AP Baker WIA/PoW and 2/Lt JC Lumsden KIA, {shot down by German ace Carl Bolle (27th victory); and Pilot John C. Miller died of wounds and Observer Lt. Stephen W. Thompson was shot in the leg.(Shot down by Lt Sergy Frommherz, (10th Victory) of Jagdstaffel 2[7]

    St. Mihiel offensive
    [edit]

    In the first half of August, the unit moved three times, finally being withdrawn from the sector on 12 August for a brief rest at Chailly-en-Brie Aerodrome. The 12th moved to Croix de Metz Airdrome near Toul on 23 August and operated in support of the St. Mihiel offensive. During that offensive, 12–13 September, the unit was equipped with 16 additional Salmsons and flew continuously to support the rapidly advancing 5th Division. Two aircraft, one piloted by Major Lewis Brereton, commander of the I Corps Observation Group and former 12th C.O., were lost, but all four crewmembers survived after landing inside friendly lines. Immediately after the St. Mihiel salient was reduced, the squadron was assigned to support the 90th Division.[6]

    Meuse-Argonne offensive
    [edit]
    Squadron photograph, probably taken at Julvecourt in November 1918 after the armistice

    On 20 September, the 12th was transferred to Remicourt Aerodrome to prepare for the Meuse-Argonne offensive which began on 26 September. During the Argonne operation the 12th Aero Squadron was very much in demand. One morning after many assignments had been made, a call came in for a photographic mission. Five planes were ordered for the flight, but only four observers were available. Eddie Foy, a radio officer, volunteered to serve as an observer for the mission. The planes encountered a large formation of Germans near the target and three were shot down, one carrying Eddie Foy, who had been wounded. It is believed that he had the distinction of being the only non-flyer in the Air Service to be wounded and taken prisoner as a result of aerial combat.[6]

    In the last few months of the war, the 12th was called in many times to help locate Allied troops that had been cut off from their units. On one such occasion during the Argonne offensive, the 82d Division reported that troops near Verpel, just east of Grand Pre were out of contact with division headquarters. Because of the foul weather and approaching darkness, Captain Steve N. Noyes, squadron commander of the 12th would not send any of his pilots on the mission, going himself instead. Flying in dense fog and rain, Captain Noyes located the troops and landed near the division HQ after dark. The information proved to be exact, and the squadron was highly commended for this as well as many other missions. The 12th completed its World War I operations from Julvecourt Aerodrome, where it moved on 5 November in order to operate closer to the front lines.[6]

    Third Army of occupation

    [edit]

    After the signing of the Armistice on 11 November 1918, the 12th Aero Squadron became a part of the Army of Occupation. The unit was located at several different places in France and Germany until 30 December, when it went to Fort Alexander (Feste Kaiser Alexander) at Koblenz, Germany, to take part in construction work.[8]

    Demobilization

    [edit]

    The squadron received orders from Third Army on 16 April 1919 to demobilize. It was ordered to report to the 1st Air Depot at Colombey-les-Belles Airdrome, to turn in all of its supplies and equipment and was relieved from duty with the AEF. The squadron's Salmson aircraft were delivered to the American Air Service Acceptance Park No. 1 at Orly Aerodrome to be returned to the French. There practically all of the pilots and observers were detached from the squadron.[9]

    Personnel at Colombey were subsequently assigned to the Commanding General, Services of Supply and ordered to report to the Le Mans, France, staging camp on 5 May 1919. There, personnel awaited scheduling to report to one of the Base Ports in France for transport to the United States and subsequent demobilization.[10] Orders were received to report to the port at Brest, France, 20 May. The squadron sailed aboard the USS Liberator on 3 June, arriving at Garden City, New York, on 17 June 1919. There, most members of the squadron were demobilized and returned to civilian life.[6][5]

    Lineage

    [edit]
    • Organized as 12th Aero Squadron on 2 June 1917
    Redesignated: 12th Aero Squadron (Corps Observation), 3 May 1918
    Redesignated: 12th Aero Squadron, 17 June 1919
    Redesignated: 12th Squadron (Observation) on 14 March 1921[2]

    Assignments

    [edit]

    Stations

    [edit]

    Combat sectors and campaigns

    [edit]
    Streamer Sector/Campaign Dates Notes
    Toul Sector 10 May – 12 June 1918, 22 August – 11 September 1918 [11]
    Baccarat (Luneville) Sector 13–28 June 1918 [11]
    Aisne-Marne Sector 30 June – 14 July 1918 [11]
    Champagne-Marne Defensive Campaign 15–18 July 1918 [11]
    Aisne-Marne Offensive Campaign 18 July – 6 August 1918 [11]
    Vesle Sector 7–12 August 1918 [11]
    St. Mihiel Offensive Campaign 12–16 September 1918 [11]
    Meuse-Argonne Offensive Campaign 26 September – 11 November 1918 [11]

    Notable personnel

    [edit]

    DSC: Distinguished Service Cross; SSC: Silver Star Citation; KIA: Killed in Action[12] KIFA: [Killed in Flying Accident]

    See also

    [edit]

    References

    [edit]

    Public Domain This article incorporates public domain material from the Air Force Historical Research Agency

    Wikimedia Commons has media related to 12th Aero Squadron.
    1. ^ a b c d e f g Series "E", Volume 3, History of the 11–13th Aero Squadrons. Gorrell's History of the American Expeditionary Forces Air Service, 1917–1919, National Archives, Washington, D.C.[page needed]
    2. ^ a b c d e "AFHRA 12th Reconnaissance Squadron Lineage and History sheet". Archived from the original on 14 September 2011. Retrieved 14 May 2013.
    3. ^ Series "H", Section "O", Volume 29, Weekly Statistical Reports of Air Service Activities, October 1918 – May 1919. Gorrell's History of the American Expeditionary Forces Air Service, 1917–1919, National Archives, Washington, D.C.[page needed]
    4. ^ a b c Gorrell's History of the American Expeditionary Forces Air Service, Series M, Volume 38, Compilation of Confirmed Victories and Losses of the AEF Air Service as of 26 May 1919[page needed]
    5. ^ a b (1988 Reprint), Order of Battle of the United States Land Forces in the First World War, Volume 3, Part 3, Center of Military History, United States Army[page needed]
    6. ^ a b c d e f g h i j Brief History of the 12th Reconnaissance Squadron, 1917–1992. Edited by Wayne Pittman, Colonel, USAF, Retired.[page needed]
    7. ^ Great War
    8. ^ Series "P", Volume 1, History of Headquarters, Third Army Air Service. Gorrell's History of the American Expeditionary Forces Air Service, 1917–1919, National Archives, Washington, D.C.[page needed]
    9. ^ Series "O", Volume 22, Weekly Statistical Reports on progress of Air Service Activities, October 1918 – May 1919. Gorrell's History of the American Expeditionary Forces Air Service, 1917–1919, National Archives, Washington, D.C.[page needed]
    10. ^ Series "D", Weekly Statistical Reports of Air Service Activities, October 1918 – May 1919. Gorrell's History of the American Expeditionary Forces Air Service, 1917–1919, National Archives, Washington, D.C.[page needed]
    11. ^ a b c d e f g h United States War Department (1920), Battle Participation of Organizations of the American Expeditionary Forces in France, Belgium and Italy, 1917–1919, Washington, Government Printing Office, 1920[page needed]
    12. ^ Military Times Hall of Valor Search, 12th Aero Squadron
    [edit]
    • Wilbur D. Kennedy Collection at The Museum of Fight Digital Collections - materials related to the World War I career of Kennedy, a reconnaissance pilot for the 12th Aero Squadron (American Expeditionary Force).
    Retrieved from "https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=12th_Aero_Squadron&oldid=1238051028"