The 12th Aero Squadron and the Great War
The 12th Aero Squadron, formed on 2 June 1917, earned sixteen distinguished service crosses through seven campaigns, earning them the reputation as the foremost observation squadron in the American Air Service.
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College students, businessmen, fathers, and engineers...meet the men who made the 12th Aero Squadron the best squadron of its kind.
PERSONNEL
Victory, glory, pain, and loss. Learn more about the men who gave their all.
VICTORIES & LOSSES
Sixteen Distinguished Service Crosses, Fifteen Silver Stars and at least Eight French Croix de Guerre Medals - read the citations of their extraordinary deeds.
DECORATIONS
Tangles with the Red Baron's Flying Circus, returning with planes riddled with bullet holes, being thrown from the aircraft, engine failures and flying through the cross-fire of no man's land are just a few of their experiences. Enter to read their incredible tales.
STORIES
Browse dozens of images from the personal collections of members of the 12th Aero Squadron
PHOTOS
Review the chronological timeline of significant events for the 12th Aero Squadron during the war.
TIMELINE
CAMPAIGNS
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CAMPAIGNS
Click ENTER to discover more about the five different missions the 12th Aero Squadron flew over the Western Front.
MISSIONS
Life over the Front was full of innovation. Discover more about the aircraft and equipment this observation squadron used in the Great War.
AIRCRAFT & EQUIPMENT
The 12th provided support to nine separate Army Divisions and one French Division. Click enter to learn more about these famous units.