Active May 1915 Branch French Air Service Mascot(s) The Charging Hog | Country France Type Pursuit Squadron Engagements World War I | |
Escadrille 57 of the French Air Force was founded during World War I, on 10 May 1915.
Contents
History
It was initially assigned to operate in the vicinity of Arras. It was cited in orders on 24 October 1915.
On 16 March 1916, the escadrille moved to the front lines near Verdun. It would remain there until incorporated into Groupe de Combat 11 on 1 November 1916. The escadrille served with GC 11 through war's end.
On 24 May 1917, the escadrille was again cited, for having destroyed 20 enemy aircraft and six observation balloons. This second citation entitled members of the unit to wear the fourragere of the Croix de guerre. The arrival of SPADs late in 1917 changed the unit's name to Escadrille SPA.57.
Closely following the war's end, Escadrille SPA.57 was once again cited for its efforts. It was credited with the destruction of 65 enemy aircraft and 14 observation balloons.
Escadrille 57 continues to serve in the French Air Force.