PERSHING WANTS MORE PLANES, PERSONNEL & EQUIPMENT FOR U.S. ARMY
Washington, D.C. (JFK+50) On November 29, 1924, General John J. Pershing's annual report as chief of staff of the United States Army was made public at the War Department.
In the report, the General declares...
"The most vital present need of the Army is an increase in the air service and gradual development of its personnel and equipment."
Pershing believes the ability to observe enemy movement from the air alone makes this investment worthwhile.
He notes that American air power in the world war came late and only 600 airplanes were sent to the front before the armistice.
It is the General's view that...
"The Air Service has become an essential aid to the armies in the field."
JFK+50 NOTE
Within two years of General Pershing's report, the United States Army Air Corps was established as part of the larger US Army. In June 1941, it became the U.S. Army Air Forces (USAAF) and in 1947 the U.S. Air Force (USAF).
"Off we go, into the wild blue yonder, Climbing high into the sun... Nothing'll stop the U.S. Air Force"
SOURCES
"Plea For Planes Made By Pershing," The Evening Star, Washington, D.C., November 29, 1924, Chronicling America, Library of Congress, www.loc.gov/
"The Air Force Song-Full Lyrics," by R. Crawford, USAF Heritage Band, www.uohyd.ac.in/
