Origins of Marine Corps Aviation

This chapter explores the advent of aviation in the US Marine Corps, beginning with the determination of Alfred A. Cunningham to excite the Corps’ interest in the possibilities of heavier-than-air powered flight. This is followed by an examination of the employment of Marine Corps aviation in World War I, including predeployment training and combat operations. The chapter concludes by addressing the import of this experience, especially with regard to the development of Marine Corps aviation in the small wars era.

Introduction

The introduction provides a brief history of the US Marine Corps up to World War I. This is followed by an exploration of the nature and character of small wars. With the concept established, the remainder of the introduction provides terms and definitions.