94th Aero Squadron Hat in the Ring Gang Helmet
Not the one owned by the famous Ace of Aces Eddie Rickenbacker, but undoubtedly worn by one of the Gang.
On September 30 1917, two officers and 150 enlisted men left Texas for France and were sent to seven different aircraft factories for maintenance and repair training. In April 1918, the 94th was reunited and stationed at the Gengault Aerodrome near Toul, France, where it began operations as the first American squadron at the front.
As the first American squadron in operation, its aviators were allowed to create their squadron insignia. They used the opportunity to commemorate the United States' entry into World War I by taking the phrase of tossing one's "hat in the ring" (a boxing phrase to signify one's willingness to become a challenger) and symbolizing it with the literal image of Uncle Sam's red, white and blue top hat going through a ring.
$750.00
Sgt.
Manning's Militaria
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