WWII US Army Air Force Pilot

Here we have an unusual USAAF Pilot Wing, awarded to an RAF Pilot Officer A.A.Crosse qualifying after training in the United States. Pin back example, engraved on the back P/O A.A.Crosse Graduated 7-2-42. With age and wear, heavy strike.

There were two main schemes established following the passage of the Lend Lease Act in March 1941. This allowed for the training of British pilots in the USA and led to the establishment of the British Flying Training Schools (BFTS) and the Arnold Scheme.
Seven BFTS were established although one was very short lived:
• No 1 Terrell, Texas - started June 9, 1941
• No 2 Lancaster, California - started June 9, 1941, and closed during 1942
• No 3 Miami, Oklahoma - started June 16, 1941
• No 4 Falcon Field, Mesa, Arizona - started June 16, 1941
• No 5 Riddle Field, Clewiston, Florida - started July 17, 1941
• No 6 Ponca City, Oklahoma - started August 23, 1941, and closed on April 17, 1944
• No 7 Sweetwater, Texas - started in May 1942 and closed about three months later in
August 1942

Code: 57656