16 Squadron RFC: an Army Cooperation Squadron
The Royal Flying Corps (RFC), established in 1912, initially focused on military and naval aviation. A key role was the support of ground forces, especially in the early days of the war.
Specific squadrons within the RFC and later the RAF were designated as "Army Cooperation" squadrons. These squadrons were tasked with direct support to the army, providing aerial reconnaissance, artillery observation, and reconnaissance for bombing raids.
This presentation looks at the history of Army Cooperation through the experiences of 16 Squadron. In this highly detailed talk, Colin Buxton discusses tasks such as Artillery Spotting, Reconnaissance, Photography and Contact Patrols. He also includes many personal recollections. The presentation also includes detailed coverage of 'Bloody April' as 16 Squadron was one of the worst affected units in Arras during April 1917.
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