The move was preceded by formal communications between the two governments, but the details of organization, equipment and training, on behalf of the British, rested with the O.C., R.F.C., Canada. Briefly they were as follows:—
(1) The R.F.C. was to train ten squadrons for the U.S. Signal Corps, comprising 300 pilots, 144 other flying officers, some 20 administrative and equipment officers and approximately 2,000 mechanics. This training was to be commenced immediately in Canada, and completed at Fort Worth, Texas. All training equipment, aerodromes, etc., in Canada to be provided by the R.F.C.
(2) The Aviation Section, United States Signal Corps was to provide in Texas, and equip with all the necessary buildings, water supply, etc., two aerodromes capable of accommodating 10 squadrons, and part of a third for the Aerial Gunnery School; these areas to be occupied and under the control of the R.F.C.
(3) The Aviation Section, United States Signal Corps was to provide in Texas all aeroplanes, spares, running supplies (oil, gasoline, etc.), office and barrack fixtures and other camp equipment. The R.F.C. to supply gunnery, wireless and all other ground instructional equipment.
(4) Each service would provide its own pay, clothing and transportation, and draw rations on repayment during their stay in each other’s country.
(5) The R.F.C. to supply all medical services in Canada, and vice versa.
This general arrangement was found to be mutually acceptable, and it was agreed, in addition, that the invaluable assistance of the I.M.B. in Canada, should be continued in Texas by the establishment there of a section of their purchasing staff.
Such was the proposal noted on the back of an envelope by the chiefs of each service, and it was carried out by both to the letter.
The brigade was already acquainted with the splendid pilot material available in the U.S., as many had enlisted in Canada, hoping to reach France at the earliest possible moment. Their record lives, and some of the success of the Corps is due to the admirable progress they made in training. They came—studied hard, and got into the air at every opportunity, breathless to join those forerunners whose names were already written large.