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First World War surveillance kite
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First World War surveillance kite
First World War surveillance kite. US soldier being lifted up by a surveillance kite during the First World War (1914-1918). As the stalemate of trench warfare developed on the Western Front in the First World War, a variety of aerial reconnaissance methods were used to map enemy positions. These included aircraft and balloons. This is one of the giant man-carrying kites developed by Samuel Perkins, being tested at Camp Devens, Ayer, Massachusetts, USA. The kites were never used in action. Here, the soldier riding the kite is Lieutenant Kirk Booth of the US Armys Signal Corps. The US entered the war on 6 April 1917, playing a crucial role in helping Britain and France to defeat Germany and its allies. Photographed in 1918
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Media ID 1700393
© US ARMY/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY
1900s 1910s 1918 1st World War Aerial Aeronautics Airborne Army Aviator Cable Chair Device Early First World War Flight Great War Historical Image History Of Science Kite Launching Logistics Massachusetts Military North American Soldier Surveillance Testing The Great War Transport Transportation Us A World War 1 World War One Ayer Barracks Mono Chrome Signal Corps Training Camp Ww 1
EDITORS COMMENTS
This photograph captures a remarkable moment in history during the First World War. In an era of trench warfare, where stalemate plagued the Western Front, innovative methods were employed to gain crucial intelligence on enemy positions. Among these methods was the use of aerial reconnaissance, utilizing aircrafts and balloons. However, this particular image showcases a lesser-known yet equally fascinating approach – the deployment of surveillance kites. Developed by Samuel Perkins, one such giant man-carrying kite is seen here being tested at Camp Devens in Ayer, Massachusetts. Lieutenant Kirk Booth of the US Army's Signal Corps fearlessly rides atop this airborne contraption as it soars high above ground level. Although these kites were never utilized in actual combat scenarios, they symbolize the relentless pursuit for technological advancements during wartime. The United States entered World War I on April 6th, 1917 and played a pivotal role in aiding Britain and France to overcome Germany and its allies. This historical image serves as a testament to their commitment towards innovation and progress within military operations. Transporting us back to that significant period in early 20th-century history, this photograph not only highlights Lieutenant Booth's daring flight but also offers insight into the logistics behind observation equipment used during war times. It stands as a reminder of human resilience amidst conflict while showcasing how science and technology have continuously shaped our world throughout history.
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