When was USMC aviation established?

The establishment of USMC aviation occurred in 1912 when the first Marine aviator, First Lieutenant Alfred A. Cunningham, began flight training with the Navy. This period marked the beginning of organizational focus on incorporating aviation into the Marine Corps operations. By 1913, the Marine Corps established its first aviation unit, which was significant in developing a dedicated aerial capability within the service. The earlier dates, such as 1900, do not align with the actual beginnings of military aviation, and later dates like 1920 and 1944 reflect advancements and expansions of aviation capabilities rather than its initial establishment. The choice of 1912 is thus critical, as it represents a foundational moment in the history of Marine aviation, setting the stage for future developments in air support and tactics within the Marine Corps.