The Lafayette Escadrille was an all-volunteer squadron of Americans who flew for France during World War I. One hundred years later, it is still arguably the best-known fighter squadron ever to take to the skies. In this work the entire history of these gallant volunteers—who named themselves after the Marquis Lafayette, who came to America’s aid during its Revolution—is laid out in both text and pictorial form. In time for the centennial celebration, this work not only tells the fascinating story of the Lafayette Escadrille, it shows it.
“Former Over the Front managing editor Steve Ruffin is
well qualified to produce perhaps the most appealing treatment of the
familiar subject: the Lafayette Escadrille of 1916-1918. The detailed,
workmanlike text details “the life and times of the Lafayette.” From
formation of N.124 in April 1916, through disestablishment as SPA.124
nearly two years later, the author traces the fortunes of all 38
Americans and their French squadron mates. Ruffin earns high marks for
objectivity. Not all the Lafayette brothers were valiant, and he
addresses the heels as well as the heroes. The postwar fortunes of the
survivors include reason for both admiration and gloom. Rare among
Lafayette histories, Ruffin places the escadrille in context,
acknowledging that it had an average record. Certainly its greatest
contribution was in the propaganda realm, as intended. With more than
220 photos (nearly 40 in color) Ruffin’s volume contains rare images not
only of people and aircraft, but uniforms, artifacts, documents, and
memorials. Six aircraft profiles by Tomasz Gronczewski and Alan Toelle
provide detailed examinations of Nieuport 11s, 17s, and SPAD 7s.
Appendices include bases, a full pilot roster, and a lengthy
bibliography. Ruffin’s book obviously is a labor of love that will be
appreciated by Great War aerophiles for years to come.” (Barrett Tillman Aerodrome)
“undoubtedly
the finest photographic collection of the Lafayette Escadrille to
appear in print. Along with the expert text revealing air-combat
experiences as well as life at the front during the Great War, it is a
never-before-seen visual history that both World War I aviation
aficionados and those with a passing interest in history will
appreciate. When its all said and done I can highly recommend this book
to any and all enthusiasts of the WWI aviation genre.” (WWI In Plastic)
“This
magnificent book probably provides everything needed by someone wishing
to learn about this famous fighting unit, and really lives up to its
sub-title…a reference book of the highest quality and one well worth
having.”” (Cross and Cockade)
“…Given
Ruffin’s 44 years of pilot experience and membership in the League of
WWI Aviation Historians, he tells this rousing story as well as any
predecessor….with the added benefit of research that cuts through the
myths without harming the narrative. Ruffin also made use of Alan
Toelle’s research into the escadrille’s aircraft markings, which benefit
both the photograph captions and the color artwork by Tomasz
Gronczewski. The wealth of photos includes some new ones from the period
as well as updates on the squadron up to its continuing service in the
French Air force today…worthy update to earn a spot in the WWI
aviation enthusiast’s library” (Aviation History)
“a
fresh look at the 38 Americans in the Escadrille Américaine, as it was
first called, to produce this voluminous account of the unit. In
addition to mini-bios of each member, his narrative is complemented by a
superb collection of black & white and color photos and other
illustrations gathered during a dedicated search for materials…is a
finely-researched, well-written and well-illustrated book. It is
recommended highly.” (Over the Front)
“For
The Lafayette Escadrille, aviation historian Steven Ruffi n has
collected a range of unknown or never-before-seen photos: formal Civil
War-style portraits, signed glossies of fliers in movie star poses, and,
thanks to American pilot Paul Rockwell, casual shots of legendary
pilots fighting boredom, hanging around a hangar playing cards,
attending funerals, and being buried with full military honors. While
the book has “photo history” in its subtitle, the Lafayette Escadrille
requires narrative to separate legend from reality, which Ruffi n adds
simply and factually while letting the pictures do the heavy lifting.
But when it comes to describing aerial combat in all its bloody fury, he
excels.” (Phil Scott Air and Space Magazine)
“While
the book has “photo history” in its subtitle, the Lafayette Escadrille
requires narrative to separate legend from reality, which Ruffi n adds
simply and factually while letting the pictures do the heavy lifting.
But when it comes to describing aerial combat in all its bloody fury, he
excels.” (Air and Space Magazine)
“The
Lafayette Escadrille is an interesting volume that combines a
well-written text with “then and now” photos that relate to the exploits
of the squadron and its pilots.” (Air Classics)
“Historians
have produced many works on the famous flying formation. This work
stands out because of the author’s attention to minute detail, and his
extensive travels as part of his research… He matched old photographs to
their present-day sites, allowing him to show many interesting
then-and-now scenes. The book also includes compelling period
illustrations and artwork. Mated together with detailed text, the volume
is a worthy addition to the body of work on the Lafayette Escadrille.” (Military Heritage)
