Who organized the first operational unit, the 1st Aero Squadron, and commanded it during the Mexican Punitive Expedition?

The first operational unit of the U.S. Air Force, the 1st Aero Squadron, was organized and commanded by Major General Benjamin D. Foulis during the Mexican Punitive Expedition. This expedition was launched in 1916 in response to raids by Mexican revolutionary Francisco "Pancho" Villa into the United States, and Foulis played a crucial role in the early development of military aviation. His leadership helped establish foundational practices for air operations in the military, marking a significant step in the evolution of aerial warfare. The selection of Foulis as the commander underscores his influential position in shaping air power and integrating it into military strategy during a time when aviation was in its infancy.