Billy Mitchell

:For the Twin Galaxies affiliated player see Billy Mitchell (Pac-Man).

World War I

Arriving in France in April 1917, a few days after the United States had entered World War I, Mitchell, by then a Lieutenant Colonel, met extensively with British and French air leaders and studied their operations. He quickly took charge and began preparations for the American air units that were to follow. Mitchell rapidly earned a reputation as a daring, flamboyant, and tireless leader. He eventually was elevated to the rank of Brigadier General and commanded all American combat units in France. In September 1918 he planned and led nearly 1,500 British, French, and Italian aircraft in the air phase of the Battle of Saint-Mihiel, one of the first coordinated air-ground offensive in history.

Related Topics:
April - 1917 - World War I - Lieutenant Colonel - British - French - Brigadier General - September - 1918 - Italian - Aircraft - Battle of Saint-Mihiel

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Recognized as the top American combat airman of the war—and, indeed, the best-known American in Europe—he was awarded the Distinguished Service Cross, the Distinguished Service Medal, and several foreign decorations, but nevertheless, alienated most of his superiors—both flying and non-flying—during his 18 months in France.

Related Topics:
Distinguished Service Cross - Distinguished Service Medal

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