Earning the squadron insignia

[chinton]

What was the procedure for a squadron to "earn" its right to display an insignia on the aircraft. I remember reading a source someplace that the squadron needed to have some number of confirmed victories - maybe 5 - but I can no longer find my source.

[Dan_San_Abbott]

Chinton:
I read an article that defined the requirements for painting USAS aircraft in Squadron markings. I have searched, but no luck yet. I am not sure, Pursuit squadron had to have x victories, Observation, y number of missions over the lines and bomber squadrons y bombing mission. Each squadron was assigned a wing sash in specific colors, that all the aircraft used from formation? It was diplayed on the upper surface of the left upper wing and on the under surface of the left(?) lower wing. I think it was in the US Cross & Cockade. When I find it, I'll be back.
Blue skies,
Dan-San

[Cliff]

chinton, Dan_San

The article you are looking for is in C&C (US) V.5 #2 "Sqn. Markings Of The Air Service, AEF" which reprints the memorandum from the Office of The Chief of Air Service dated May 16, 1918.

Paragraph 3 states:
"No sqn. will place a distinctive insignia on its planes without a written authorization from the authority named in para. 2. No applications for this authorization will be made until the following conditions have been fulfilled:
(a) Observation sqns: after one month of service at the front, or immediately upon receiving citation in orders from higher authority for distinguished services.
(b) Bombing sqns: after one month of service at the front, or immediately upon receiving citation in orders from higher authority for distinguished services.
(c) Pursuit sqns: after being officially accredited with three enemy planes brought down in aerial combat; or immediately upon receiving citation in orders from higher authority for distinguished services."

Cliff

[Dan_San_Abbott]

Cliff;
Thank you, that is what I was looking for.
Blue skies,
Dan-San