The 169th Aero Squadron of the First Army Corps was a part of the American Expeditionary Forces from 1917 to 1919. Based at Love Field in Dallas, Texas, the squadron was formed in December 1917. In January of the next year, members of the 169th embarked to Liverpool, England, with the United States’ entrance into World War I.

According to official march orders, the Squadron worked with the British Royal Flying Corps from February to August of 1918. They trained pilots and flew across the channel, then traveled to Ar. Vinets, France. While in France, the 169th served during the battles of Meuse, Argonne Forest, St. Mihiel, and the Defensive Sector. Servicemen returned in May of 1919 at the end of World War I.

Thirteen years after the Squadron's disbandment, Jim Flanagin, known as “Buddy J.M.,” made efforts in 1932 to hold an annual meeting for members. The 169th met consecutively from 1932 to 1975 in Dallas, Texas, holding over 50 reunions during that time.