The 28th Bombardment Squadron was first formed at Kelley Field Texas, May 17, 1917 under the name 28th Aero Squadron. Captain James R. Alfonte was the first commander. Among that first group of boys who formed the enlisted personnel of the squadron was a private named Lester J. Maitland now known as Major Maitland and present commander of the squadron.

The squadron was soon moved to Canada for basic training with the Royal Air Force, then back to Fort Worth Texas for intensive training. February 25, 1918 they embarked on the “Olympic” to Europe. The squadron arrived in France March 17th and were again assigned to the R. A. F. for bombardment training.

August 15 the 28th entrained for the American front and active duty. They were equipped with 25 spad XIII’s. These were the first American Planes equipped with light bombing racks. They were used to bomb and straff troops from low altitudes.

Space does not permit an account of the many battles engaged in, the daring feats of bravery, the many enemy planes shot down, or the casualties suffered by the squadron. In all their service they gave a willing and glorious account of themselves and received the acclaim of the War Department for gallant service. They served in the following sectors: Flander, Lorraine, Lys, St. Mehiel and Meuse-Argonne.

June 16, 1919 the squadron was demobilized at Mitchel Field New York.

The 28th Bombardment Squadron was again ordered mobilized at Mather Field California for duty in the Philippines September 20, 1921.

The squadron become active in the Philippines assigned to Clark Field October 21, 1922 and since that time have served well on this detail.