During
World War I, the
First Yale Unit of the
Naval Reserve Flying Corps was closely associated with the
Skull and Bones. The Yale Unit was often referred to snidely as the millionaire squadron. While training in Florida, the pilots often were wheeled to their planes in wheel chairs pushed by Black porters. Artemus Gates was a member of the Yale Unit. He helped rescue downed fliers, was shot down, taken prisoner by the Germans and escaped. Previous flying experience enabled him to become an ensign in naval aviation in March 1917. He was released from active service in February 1919, as lieutenant-commander. Because of service on the front, Mr. Gates was decorated by the United States government with the
Navy Distinguished Service Medal, by Great Britain with the
Distinguished Flying Cross, and by France with the
Croix de Guerre and was made an officer of the Legion of Honor of France. ==Marriage==