This "Mercury" fabric insignia represented the 139th Aero Squadron of the United States Army Air Service during World War I. It was removed from a Spad 13 belonging to the unit.
The 139th Aero Squadron was a day pursuit (fighter) squadron as part of the 2d Pursuit Group, First United States Army. After the 1918 Armistice with Germany the squadron returned to the United States in June 1919 and was demobilized.
Display Status
This object is not on display at the National Air and Space Museum. It is either on loan or in storage.
Object Details
Country of Origin
France
Type
MEMORABILIA-World War I
Physical Description
United States Army Air Service (USAAS) 139th Aero Squadron aircraft fabric insignia; Roman god Mercury depicted in white paint on olive-green camouflage background fabric; six red, white, and blue American roundels depicted; 34 black German crosses depicted.
Dimensions
2-D - Unframed (H x W): 56.5 x 90.8cm (22 1/4 x 35 3/4 in.)
Materials
Overall: painted and doped linen
Inventory Number
A20060426000
Credit Line
Donated by the family of Robert S. Sanford
Data Source
National Air and Space Museum
Restrictions & Rights
Usage conditions apply
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