Lafayette Escadrille

The Lafayette Escadrille was a French fighter squadron formed during World War I, composed mainly of American volunteer pilots before the U.S. officially entered the war. Named after Marquis de Lafayette, a French hero of the American Revolution, it symbolized Franco-American cooperation. Operating from 1916 to 1918, its pilots engaged in aerial combat to defend France from German attacks, gaining a distinguished reputation for bravery and skill. The squadron played a significant role in early air warfare, fostering American involvement and patriotism before the United States officially joined the conflict.