America Goes to War!

    At the start of World War One, aircraft were used as observation platforms, not as warplanes (enemy pilots would often wave at each other as they flew by). Therefore, the aircraft were left in the colors of the fabrics used, and metal components were left bare, often polished to a high gloss.

    Aside from the nationality marks being applied, individual unit markings began to show up in the squadrons. This made it easier to identify what unit the particular aircraft belonged to.

    Things changed dramatically early in the war when a German pilot took a rifle along with him on a mission and began taking pot shots at opposing observation aircraft. Camouflage now had to be used to conceal aircraft from their antagonists. The French and British developed a pattern that used earth tones on the topsides, in order to conceal the aircraft when viewed from above, and light blue or light gray on the undersides to hide it from enemy gunners on the ground. Unit markings were toned down, or made less conspicuous. The British also used an overall Olive Drab color on their aircraft as well, which worked well over the forested regions of Europe.