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This 48-star American flag was presented by U.S. President Woodrow Wilson to members of the Lafayette Escadrille, a French Air Service squadron manned primarily by American volunteer pilots during World War I. The unit was named to honor the Marquis de Lafayette, hero of the American and French revolutions.

This flag was donated by Frederick H. Prince, who flew with the Lafayette Escadrille during the conflict. His brother, Norman Prince, was a leading founder of the squadron and flew with it until his death in a crash in October 1916.

 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 United States of America Type MEMORABILIA-World War I Physical Description United States 48-star national flag used by the Lafayette Escadrille of the French Air Service; consists of thirteen equal horizontal stripes of red (top and bottom) alternating with white, with a blue rectangle in the canton with forty-eight white, five-pointed stars arranged 6 horizontal rows of 8 stars; yellow trim with aiguillette and French war cross. Dimensions 2-D - In Frame (H x W x D): 132.1 x 167.6cm (52 x 66 in.)
 Materials Overall: Silk
 Inventory Number A19600188000 Credit Line Donated by Mr. Frederick H. Prince, Jr. Data Source National Air and Space Museum Restrictions & Rights Usage conditions apply
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