LE BLOG LAFONT

The year was 1916 and the United States had yet to officially enter World War I. Despite this, a handful of young ambitious American pilots wanted to show their commitment to the French, in defense of the values that both countries held dear.

A squadron consisting entirely of American volunteers was organized to lend support to the French Army. The La Fayette squadron made its debut in 1916, named after the Marquis de La Fayette, a French hero of the US War of Independence and an appropriate symbol of friendship between the two countries.

The squadron’s insignia was the head of Sioux Indian Chief, symbolizing strength and courage. The unit fought in every battle of the war, and notably the battle of Verdun one of the longest and costliest battles in history.