The "Leaping Tiger" insignia represented the 141st Aero Squadron of the United States Army Air Service (USAAS) during World War I. This emblem was likely cut from the fabric of a squadron aircraft from the period.
The 141st Aero Squadron was a pursuit squadron in the American Expeditionary Force. The squadron flew its first combat patrol in late-October 1918 and saw limited combat. Following the cessation of hostilities, it was reassigned to participate in the post-war occupation of the Rhineland in Germany. It relocated back to the United States in 1919.
This object is not on display at the National Air and Space Museum. It is either on loan or in storage.
United States of America
MEMORABILIA-World War I
U.S. Army Air Service (USAAS) fabric insignia of the 141st Aero Squadron; triangular, with one broadly-rounded edge; color painting depicting a "leaping tiger" on olive-drab/dark-brown painted background. Insignia shows significant wear and aging; the item may have been folded and stored.
2-D - Unframed (H x W): 47.6 x 87.3cm (18 3/4 x 34 3/8 in.)
Linen (flax), paint, dope
A19500161000
Donated by Mrs. Mary E. "Mother" Tusch
National Air and Space Museum
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