Jean Andre Pezon

Lieutenant Colonel Jean André Pezon began his military career during World War I and became a flying ace credited with ten confirmed aerial victories. He served his nation throughout World War II.

Early life

Jean André Pezon was born in Saint-Pierre-le-Moûtier on 19 March 1898.

World War I Pezon volunteered for military service on 4 September 1915, while he was still 17 years old. He was assigned to various artillery units until he was forwarded to Dijon for pilot's training on 27 February 1917. He moved on to Étampes on 12 March. On 22 May 1917, he was awarded Military Pilot's Brevet No. 6485. On 7 August, he was promoted to enlisted Brigadier and forwarded to Avord and Pau for advanced training.

Honors and awards

A fearless pilot with the will to prove it to all. He has rendered valuable service for the army by carrying out 20 severe combats in a scout, at low altitude and with particularly favorable results. He reported his third victory on 2 September 1918 by downing a balloon in flames, which he followed to the ground. He has returned frequently from missions with his plane rendered unfit for further use by enemy fire. Four citations. citation, 5 October 1918

Chevalier de la Légion d'Honneur

A non-commissioned officer and pilot credited with ten official victories. On 30 March 1918, he attacked a train at Château-Salins carrying enemy troops. During the attack, 17 soldiers were killed and 28 wounded. He returned to his airfield with his aircraft damaged by bullets and shrapnel despite anti-aircraft fire. He was awarded the Médaille Militaire, received six citations and was made Chevalier of the Légion d'Honneur on 22 June 1919.

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