Aircraft Board facts for kids
The Aircraft Board was an important group in the United States government during World War I. It was created to help make sure America had enough airplanes for the war. This board gave advice on how to build and get aircraft for the military.
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What Was the Aircraft Board?
The Aircraft Board was officially started on October 1, 1917. Before that, it was called the Aircraft Production Board. This first board was set up by a group called the Council of National Defense on May 16, 1917. The new Aircraft Board was given special legal power by the U.S. Congress.
Who Led the Board?
The first person in charge of the Aircraft Board was Howard E. Coffin. The board used to be part of the Council of National Defense. But when it became the Aircraft Board, it moved under the control of the Secretaries of War and the Navy. This meant it reported directly to the leaders of the Army and Navy.
The board's main job was to give advice. They shared their ideas with the Aviation Section, U.S. Signal Corps. This military group was in charge of developing and getting airplanes for the war.
Important Members of the Board
The Aircraft Board had several key members when it first started. These included:
- Howard E. Coffin (the chairman)
- Brig. Gen. George O. Squier (who was the Chief Signal Officer)
- Rear Adm. David W. Taylor (who led the Bureau of Construction for the Navy)
- S.D. Waldron
- Edward A. Deeds
- Col. Robert L. Montgomery
Later, more members joined the board. On June 16, 1917, Col. Raynal C. Bolling became a member. Then, on September 14, 1917, Col. Benjamin D. Foulois and Capt. N. E. Irwin joined. All of these new members were from the Aviation Section.
A Change in Leadership
In March 1918, Howard Coffin left his position as head of the board. In April 1918, President Wilson chose a new leader. He appointed John D. Ryan to take over from Coffin.
