Escadrille C46

Escadrille 46 ("small squadron 46") was founded in March 1915 with twin-engine three-seated Caudrons, hence Escadrille C46. Originally attached to VI Armee, the squadron was posted to the II Armee in September 1915. The squadron flew their Caudron G.IV bombers during the Battle of Verdun, which kicked off on 21 February 1916. In June it refitted with Caudron R.IVs; their unit designation changed to Escadrille R.46. Then, beginning 1 July, while attached to VI Armee, it fought in the Battle of the Somme as it eventuated. On 28 September, it was granted a third citation. Escadrille 46 ended World War I credited with 37 enemy aircraft destroyed. They would receive a fourth citation postwar, on 4 February 1919. This citation entitled the unit to display the Fourragere of the Médaille Militaire. ==Commanding officers==

• Capitaine Legardeur: March 1915 • Lieutenant Didier Lecour Grandmaison: February 1916 - killed in action 10 May 1917 • Capitaine Marcel Bloch • Lieutenant Resel: October 1918 ==Notable members==

• Lieutenant Didier Lecour Grandmaison • Lieutenant Jean Loste • Adjutant-chef Marie Vitalis ==Aircraft==

• Twin engine three place Caudrons: March 1915 • Caudron G.IIIs • Caudron G.IVs • Caudron R.IVs: First flown in June 1916 • Letord Let.1: Supplied in March 1917 • Caudron R.XIs ==End notes==