WWI - 22nd Aero Squadron Pin

During WWI many of the Squadrons had a symbol painted on the side of their aircraft. The Pilots then had these made up into pins. This is a museum quality reproduction of the very rare 22nd Aero Pursuit Squadron Pin, of a shooting comet. Only one of these pins is know to exist and in the Smithsonian Collection. The in is 1 ¼ inches wide as was the original and made in gold plated brass with hard enameling. The original was 14k gold. This pin was worn over the Pilots wings on the left side of the uniform to designate their squadron. This followed the practice started by the French. Here is a chance to have one until an original comes along, if ever. The squadron was assigned on April 30, 1918 to the 1st Pursuit Group, they carried out 314 patrols, engaged in 230 combats, were credited with 54 confirmed kills. They suffered 8 KIA, 4 wounded, 7 POWs and 3 MIA. They ceased operations on December 5, 1918.