The Lafayette Escadrille
On March 21, 1916, a group of mostly American pilots formed the Escadrille Américaine. Later named the Lafayette Escadrille, they flew several high-profile missions that encouraged more Americans to join their ranks.
Air Force
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First U.S. Aerial Victory
On February 5, 1918, US pilot Stephen W. Thompson shot down a German aircraft, making him the first person in the American military to shoot down an enemy plane.
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NORAD Tracks Santa
On December 24, 1955, NORAD’s predecessor tracked Santa Claus for the first time.
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Flying Tigers First Combat
On December 20, 1941, the Flying Tigers engaged in their first battle.
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The Miracle of Dunkirk
On June 4, 1940, over 338,000 Allied troops were evacuated from the beaches of Dunkirk after being cut off and surrounded there for weeks.
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Birth of Dr. Theodore von Kármán
Scientist and mathematician Dr. Theodore von Kármán was born on May 11, 1881, in Budapest, Austria-Hungary.
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Happy Birthday, Gene Autry
“The Singing Cowboy,” Orvon Grover “Gene” Autry was born on September 29, 1907, in Tioga, Texas.
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Victory at Guadalcanal
On February 9, 1943, the Allies claimed a major victory and marked the end of the Guadalcanal Campaign.
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Kentucky Becomes 15th State
On June 1, 1792, Kentucky was admitted as America’s 15th state.
