United States Army Air Corps
The United States Army Air Corps was the aerial warfare service component of the United States Army between 1926 and 1941. It was a forerunner to the United States Army Air Forces, which in turn became the United States Air Force in 1947.
History and Formation
- The Air Corps was established by the Air Corps Act of 1926, signed into law by President Calvin Coolidge on July 2, 1926. This act replaced the previous United States Army Air Service.
- Its primary purpose was to provide for an expanded aviation arm within the Army, focusing on tactical support for ground forces, observation, and bombing.
Major Developments
- Organizational Changes: The Air Corps saw several reorganizations and expansions. In 1935, the General Headquarters Air Force (GHQAF) was established, which was responsible for operational control of all combat air units. This was a significant step towards the independence of air forces from ground command.
- Expansion During the Interwar Period: During the 1930s, the Air Corps began to expand in anticipation of potential involvement in World War II. This included the acquisition of new aircraft like the B-17 Flying Fortress and the development of new doctrines.
- Leadership: Notable leaders during this period included General Henry H. Arnold, who would later become the first General of the Air Force, and Major General Oscar Westover, who served as Chief of the Air Corps from 1935 until his death in 1938.
Role in World War II
- As the United States entered World War II, the Air Corps was vastly expanded and transformed into the United States Army Air Forces in 1941. This transformation was formalized by Executive Order 9082 on February 28, 1942.
- The Air Corps provided the organizational framework for the rapid growth of American air power, which was critical during the war years, particularly in strategic bombing campaigns in Europe and the Pacific.
Legacy
The United States Army Air Corps laid the foundation for modern American air forces. Its doctrines, training methods, and organizational structures were pivotal in shaping the capabilities and strategies of the United States during WWII and beyond.
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