96th Aero Squadron
The 96th Aero Squadron was an Air Service, United States Army unit that fought on the Western Front during World War I.
| 96th Aero Squadron | |
|---|---|
Aviators of the 96th Aero Squadron, November 1918 | |
| Active | 20 August 1917 – 1921 (became 96th Squadron (Bombardment)) |
| Country | United States |
| Branch | Air Service, United States Army |
| Type | Squadron |
| Role | Day bombardment |
| Part of | American Expeditionary Forces (AEF) |
| Engagements | World War I |
| Commanders | |
| Notable commanders | Maj. H. M. Brown Capt. James A. Summersett Jr. (temporary) Maj. J. L. Dunsworth Capt. James A. Summersett Jr. (permanent) |
| Insignia | |
| 96th Aero Squadron emblem | |
| Aircraft flown | |
| Bomber | Breguet 14B.2, 1918–1919 |
| Service record | |
|---|---|
| Operations |
1st Day Bombardment Group
|
| Victories |
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The squadron was assigned as a day bombardment squadron, performing long-range bombing attacks on roads and railroads: destruction of materiel and massed troop formations behind enemy lines. It also performed strategic reconnaissance over enemy-controlled territory, and tactical bombing attacks on enemy forces in support of Army offensive operations. After the 1918 Armistice with Germany, the squadron returned to the United States in May 1919 and became part of the permanent United States Army Air Service in 1921, being re-designated as the 96th Squadron (Bombardment).
The 96th Bomb Squadron, assigned to the 2d Operations Group, Barksdale Air Force Base, Louisiana, is the squadron's descendant United States Air Force unit, which has inherited its lineage and honors.