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American Volunteer Group (Flying Tigers) Special Collection
SDASM.SC.10008  
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Collection Overview
 
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Description
This series contains various correspondences, articles, documents, reunion yearbooks, etc. relating to the American Volunteer Group (AVG), known as the “Flying Tigers.”
Background
The 1st American Volunteer Group, also known as AVG, and more famously as the Flying Tigers—was a group of volunteer American pilots from various branches of the military, led by Lieutenant General Claire Lee Chennault. Answering a call from Madame Chiang Kai Shek, Chennault initially gathered together the AVG to perform a survey of the Chinese Air Force. The AVG was comprised of 3 squadrons: 1st Adam and Eves, 2nd Panda Bears, and 3rd Hell’s Angels. The group saw combat after Pearl Harbor in 1941, and went on to produce multiple victories against the Japanese, and emerged with multiple Flying Aces. Chennault employed his fighter doctrine, which was based on careful study of the enemy’s tactics, while employing their strengths in altitude. The Flying Tigers were famous too for their successes in the air battle over Rangoon. In addition to their combat victories, the Flying Tiger members and Chennault were highly celebrated, and in 1992, AVG veterans were finally recognized as members of the military services, and all members were awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross. The ground crew were rewarded the Bronze Star. In popular culture, the Flying Tigers are readily recognizable in their iconic shark face nose art. They have also been featured in various movies, books and documentaries.
Extent
4.47 Cubic Feet It contains correspondence, articles, documents, reunion yearbooks, artifacts, etc., relating to the American Volunteer Group (AVG), known as the “Flying Tigers,” the China Air Task Force, the United States 10th Air Force, and the United States 14th Air Force, all of which have used the Flying Tigers designation. The collection consists of seven flip-top archival boxes; three measuring 10.5”x15.5”x7’, two measuring 10.5”x15.5”x5”, and two measuring 10.5”x12.5”x5”.
Restrictions
Some copyright may be reserved. Consult with the library director for more information.
Availability
The collection is open to researchers by appointment.