CHAPTER VIII

A BATTLE IN THE AIR


Strictly speaking there was at that time no American front. That
did not come until later, for the American soldiers, as was proper,
were brigaded with the French and British, to enable our troops, who
were unused to European war conditions, to become acquainted with
the needful measures to meet and overcome the brutality of the Huns.

But even with this brigading of the United States' troops with the
seasoned veterans, which, in plain language, meant a mingling of the
two forces, there was much that was strictly American among the new
arrivals.

Not only were the khaki-clad soldiers real Americans to the
backbone, but their equipment and the supplies that had come over
with them in the transports were such as might be seen at any army
camp in this country, as distinguished from a French or a British
camp.

"Well, the boys are here all right," remarked Jack, as he and Tom
made their way toward the headquarters at which they were to report.

"Yes, and it makes me feel good to see them!" said Tom. "This is