First Air Depot Zone of Advance (FRANCE)
 

I found a book of my grandfather's entitled: 875th Aero Squadron Roster, 1918-1919, First Air Depot Zone of Advance (France).

The forward states: "The squadron was organized at the First Air Depot, Zone of Advance, American E. F. France, on July 1st 1918, the enlisted personnel of same being picked men from the 5 oldest squadrons at this depot at that time & these men were all given special courses in various Aeroplane factories throughout France, in order that they would be proficent in the maintenance and repair of aeroplanes and moters.

The squadron has operated in the Zone of Advance since the date of its organization all thru the period of activity and armistice, overseeing the running of the Advance Shops, First Air Depot, which comprised of 3 departments, namely, Motor Overhaul, Machine Shop, and the Erection & Repair Departments. These shops were operated solely for the purpose of servicability of all planes being used in the American Sectors of the Zone of Advance. These Sectors combined consisted of a 52 mile front."

The book was decicated in merory of Albert Taylor (died Oct. 4 1919) and Harry Shirley (Died Jan. 9 1919).

The 2 commissioned personnel listed at the front are: Arthur F. Allen (commanding officer) and Robert L. Mehorney (1st Lieut)

The rest of the book list by roster some 130-140 names, their rank, some saying of theirs, their nick name and where they were from.

There is nothing more in the book with specifics.

Can anyone tell me more about this squadron, unit or group????

Thanks, Henry