Lead by the
charismatic and popular
Eddie Rickenbacker, the 94th Aero (Pursuit)
Squadron was formed in August of 1917, and fought in
WWI. Part of the 1st Pursuit Group, they flew the
Nieuport 28 and the
Spad XIII biplanes. John Huffer and Kenneth Marr also commanded the famous unit.
One of the most enduring icons in American military history, the hat in the ring was their symbol, and their unofficial name was the hat-in-the-ring squadron. Here is the official heraldric description: Within a Red circle in perspective, long axis vertical, Uncle Sam’s top hat, upper portion, blue background with white stars (pointing to dexter base); middle portion, red and white stripes; brim, white (pointing to sinister chief); sweat band, Brown; inside of hat, dark blue. (From the Air Force Historical Research Agency.)
Eight of its pilots eventually became Aces (Rickenbacker shot down 26 aircraft himself.) and the unit is credited with 68 total kills. It was awarded with several unit citations as well as the French Croix de Guerre several times.
It was consolidated with the 103rd Aero Squadron in 1924.