Exterior: A field near Calcutta, India, where a crowd of people watch as a Bleriot monoplane does spins and fly-bys over the field. Raoul Lufbery, a man in his mid-twenties watches with fascination in his face; he is a young man who has just discovered his life’s work. The airplane lands and taxies to a canvas hangar before which the pilot, Marc Pourpe, stops the aircraft and hops out. Lufbery helps him roll the plane into the hangar.

Interior: Inside the hangar.

Pourpe:

She’s well, Raoul. She’s very well. Let’s have a drink to her. She’s not always so well and we should toast her health when she performs so. My life may depend upon it so it pays to placate her spirit.

Raoul:

You don’t believe that, do you?

Pourpe:

And why not? Why can’t a machine have a spirit and feelings that require placating? And why should I take the chance that she has and I have insulted them? It wouldn’t be very good, would it? Airplanes sometimes destroy themselves to revenge an insult. And it’s a good excuse to have a drink. We’ll have to get ourselves invited to one of the clubs in town by an Englishman; that way we’ll not have to buy our own food and drink.

Raoul:

They won’t invite me to their clubs.

Pourpe:

If they invite me, they invite you. And they will invite me, watch and see. (They leave the tent hangar.)

Mercer:

So you’re still alive, Marc. That alone is an accomplishment.

Pourpe:

I am immortal, Sir James.

Mercer:

You may be, old man. Those things you fly in have killed many an immortal though.

Pourpe:

You exaggerate.

Mercer:

Do I? Perhaps I do. How about a drink at the hotel?

Pourpe:

Not at your club?

Mercer:

The hotel is more comfortable, more lively, but if you want to go to my club, that’s all right with me.

Pourpe:

Include dinner and you have a deal.

Mercer:

(Laughs loudly) You are French to the soles of your feet, Pourpe. Dinner it is for you and your friend.

Pourpe:

My friend? This is Raoul Lufbery, my mechanic, and the best airplane mechanic in the whole wide world.

Mercer:

Happy to meet you, Lufbery.

Lufbery:

My pleasure.

Mercer:

I hope you have better manners than your employer, though manners are not a high priority of the French, are they now?

Lufbery:

I’m an American.

Mercer:

A Yank, eh? (He looks at Pourpe skeptically. Pourpe shrugs in response.) Welcome to Calcutta. My carriage is right over here. (They walk off together.)

Exterior: Mercer’s carriage pulls up before the entrance to his club, it is a white wooden building with a covered veranda. The three men alight. Lufbery gets out last. As he does so, a beautiful Indian woman passes. He stops and stares at her. She looks at him. Her face shows annoyance, then flattery. She smiles and turns away shyly. Mercer and Pourpe have been watching this momentary drama.

Mercer:

A Yank with a French accent and an eye for the exotic. You’ll go far, Lufbery old man. (The three enter the club.)

Interior: The interior of Mercer’s club which is filled with wicker chairs, a mahogany bar, photos of the king, etc. Mercer, Pourpe and Lufbery stand at the bar drinking gin and tonics.

Pourpe:

I’ll have another. (The Indian bartender makes another drink.) These are good.

Mercer:

I’m pleased that you enjoy them. Have as many as you like. (To Lufbery) How long have you been working with Marc?

Lufbery:

Since yesterday. (Mercer is surprised, then amused. He laughs aloud.)

Mercer:

You must be quite a mechanic to have become the best in the world in one day.

Lufbery:

Yesterday I put up the hangar.

Mercer:

Your rise in the world has indeed been remarkable. Pourpe, you must admit that Lufbery here is advancing at an enormous rate.

Pourpe:

He’ll be president of France some day.

Mercer:

Within the week I expect. Are you a pilot too?

Lufbery:

No, though I’d like to be.

Pourpe:

You will be.

Mercer:

It will take more than two days though, at least I hope it does. How did you come to be an American if I may ask.

Lufbery:

I was in the American Army in the Philippines for two years. When I finished my enlistment, I was eligible for citizenship and given it.

Mercer:

The Philippines, eh? And what brought you there?

Lufbery:

I was traveling around and ended up in America with no money so I joined the Army.

Mercer:

A logical move, eh, Pourpe?

Pourpe:

Logical.

Mercer:

Where were you traveling around as you put it?

Lufbery:

China, Japan, Egypt, Germany, Algiers, Turkey, a few other places.

Mercer:

You must be older than you appear to have traveled so extensively.

Pourpe:

You English make a big affair of travel. All you need is a change of clothes. It hardly takes any time at all. If you have sufficient skills, you can earn your way anywhere.

Mercer:

You’re probably right. We tend to restrict our travel to places where there are Englishmen in residence. We lack the spirit of adventure that drove our grandfathers to China, the South Seas and into deepest Africa. Where are you going from here?

Pourpe:

Cairo, then to Khartoum.

Mercer:

I don’t know how you make a living in such places.

Pourpe:

Off the English. (Mercer laughs as does Pourpe. Lufbery smiles.)

Mercer:

Here’s to you. Both of you. (The scene fades.)

Exterior: Lufbery soars above the desert in the Bleriot while Pourpe watches from the ground. After a few passes Lufbery bounces to a landing. He then taxis to where Pourpe is waiting for him and jumps out of the airplane.

Pourpe:

Landing an aircraft is not your forte, Raoul. You should work on landings because the cost of machines and injuries could leave you penniless. Landing is the most dangerous part of flying, particularly for a new aviator. Work on your landings. Besides that, you’re doing well. You have an affinity for the air. I only wish that I found it so easy as you seem to do.

Lufbery:

It’s not easy. It’s not easy at all. As for landing, I don’t know that I’ll ever get it. I either approach too fast or too slow and stall.

Pourpe:

Touch, touch is the key. You have to development a feeling for the proper speed. It takes time but you’ll get it; you have the knack. You just need practice. You must practice (Lufbery joins him and speaks the word with him.) landings.

Lufbery:

Landings.

Pourpe:

Let’s have a drink and wash this damned desert out of our throats.

Lufbery:

After you, mine capitan.

Pourpe:

(Speaks as they walk.) We’ll soon be leaving here for civilization. France that is. Home.

Lufbery:

Why France?

Pourpe:

We’re going to buy a new plane.

Lufbery:

Are we?

Pourpe:

We are.

Lufbery:

I didn’t know that you were so wealthy that you could buy a new plane.

Pourpe:

Of course you didn’t. Otherwise you would have asked for a raise; that’s why I kept it to myself. Besides, I was able to save the necessary funds by keeping your wages at starvation level.

Lufbery:

I’m proud to have made a contribution. (The scene fades.)

Exterior: Paris where a newsboy is selling newspapers with a headline in French reading "War with Germany!". A crowd is forming talking about the news. Many seem genuinely pleased, others seem relieved that war has come. They talk excitedly though it is not possible to understand what they say. One man who is dressed in a top hat, frock coat and bow tie shakes his fist to the east while those around him laugh and remark approvingly.

Exterior: Pourpe and Lufbery stand apart from the crowd and the rushing passersby. Pourpe reads a copy of the newspaper while Lufbery looks over his shoulder.

Lufbery:

We got back here just in time for a war.

Pourpe:

Yes, it’s poor timing. We’ve been waiting more than forty years for this chance though. We’re finally going to get our own back from Germany.

Lufbery:

I wouldn’t be too sure about that.

Pourpe:

Be careful what you say, Raoul. If anybody but me heard that you’d be torn apart by the mob. I don’t even know if France has an air force. I’d best find out before the war ends without me.

Lufbery:

You’re going to join up?

Pourpe:

I’m a Frenchman. And so are you.

Lufbery:

I’m an American.

Pourpe:

And you’re an experienced soldier. France needs you now. France needs us both.

Lufbery:

I’m an American.

Pourpe:

Then we’ll go into the Foreign Legion. Do they have an air service?

Lufbery:

I don’t know. Besides, you can’t go into the Foreign Legion; they only accept foreigners. And I’m not going into anything.

Pourpe:

Stop talking nonsense. We have to find out where we can join the air service of France.

Lufbery:

I’m not talking nonsense.

Pourpe:

We’re wasting time; this war isn’t going to last forever. However, since you are a close friend, confidant and fellow aviator, I will explain it for you. You say that you are an American and, therefore, you are not going to join the army and fight in the war. What you neglect to mention is that you were born in France, you are now in France and patriotism is mandatory in France. It is the law. Therefore, either you will go into the army, or the Foreign Legion perhaps, or you will be put in jail and, also perhaps, shot. It’s all quite simple.

Lufbery:

We’ll see about that.

Pourpe:

Indeed we will. Now, let’s find out where we can join the air service. (They go off as the scene fades.)

Exterior: An army base where men march and drill in the background. An officer of the Foreign Legion comes out of a wooden building and crosses the dusty common to another wooden building, a barracks, where he enters.

Interior: The officer enters the building goes to a door and knocks. There is no answer. Another officer enters. The first addresses him.

First Officer:

Have you seen Lufbery?

Second Officer:

Not since early this morning. You may find him at the Officers Club though. He usually goes there for lunch when he’s here at the base.

First Officer:

Thank you. (The second officer goes off. The first officer goes off the way he came.)

Interior: The Officers Club where the officer enters and looks about. Compared to the wooden buildings in the prior scenes, the club is a grand place filled with paintings, expensive furnishings and carpets. The officer sees what he has come for and crosses to the bar where Lufbery is standing. Lufbery wears the uniform of a Foreign Legion officer. He is drinking and talking quietly with two other officers. Indeed, the club is as quiet as a library though many officers sit about reading, eating and drinking.

First Officer:

Raoul! I’ve been looking all over for you.

Lufbery:

Why?

First Officer:

Because of this. It came from Army Headquarters about an hour ago. I thought you would be interested. (He hands Lufbery a paper which Lufbery reads.)

Lufbery:

You’re right, I am interested. Thank you. Excuse me, Gentlemen. (Lufbery picks up his hat, puts money on the bar and hurries out as the scene fades.)

Interior: A hotel room which is richly furnished. Dr. Edmund Gros a middle aged American and Norman Prince, a young American, are in conversation with two French officers, Captain GeorgesThenault and Lieutenant de Meux when a knock is heard at the door.

Gros:

It takes a bit of patience, Captain. These men are green but they’re also eager

de Meaux:

And totally undisciplined.

Gros:

Military life is new to them. It takes time to learn the courtesies.

Thenault:

It is not the courtesies that concern me, Dr. Gros. The men that we have so far attracted have no military experience and little flying experience for the most part. It will take time to train them in both areas. However, with a few men who already have such experience, our task will be easier.

Prince:

Are you sure about that? I’ve heard stories about these men that are not altogether the sort of thing that a strict military man would approve of.

De Meaux:

Can they be worse than what we have?

Thenault:

They’re experienced fighting men though their flying skills have been called into question. As for their off-duty conduct, I don’t find it so serious as the Lieutenant may find it. My interest is in forming a first rate unit of combat and reconnaissance pilots not a monastery. Though prayers are always included in our tactics.

Prince:

Has an instructor been assigned?

Thenault:

Captain Haape, one of the best.

Prince:

Equipment?

Thenault:

Nieuports.

Gros:

We’re on our way.

Thenault:

God help us.

Prince:

You’re not frightened, Captain.

Thenault:

No. But I am suffering pangs of trepidation. This is all new to me. I’m a soldier not a desk officer. I prefer to be in the air rather than commanding a unit of foreigners, if you will excuse the term. My country is in a fight for its life. This may not be the time for such an experiment. The time and equipment might better be used to train French pilots to defend their own homeland rather than on your scheme.

Gros:

All will be well, Captain. You are going to make history with this unit, mark my words.

Thenault:

We shall see. I must get back now. I have to interview those new pilots. So, if there is nothing more, gentlemen.

Gros:

No. Good luck, Captain.

Thenault:

Thank you. (The men shake hands and the two Frenchmen leave.)

Interior: Gros and Prince remain in the hotel room.

Prince:

The Captain doesn’t spend time and trouble on sparing one’s feelings, does he?

Gros:

He’s the right man for the job. He’ll do fine. His candor is a quality I think, at least in this venture. He’s going to need it to make himself understood by those college boys and adventurers that you’ve saddled him with. They’ll need a no nonsense commanding officer. I’m not so sure about the lieutenant though. He seems to be the soul of negativity. He doesn’t like anything about the project.

Prince:

He’s French. Anything non-French is unacceptable, or at least cause for suspicion. He’ll come around. I hope. Captain Thenault is the important one here though. As long as he’s willing to go along, the project will move forward.

Gros:

Yes, but the question is how long will he be willing to go along. After a few smashed up machines, he may decide that the whole thing should be shelved and the resources given to the French flying service.

Prince:

I don’t think so. He’s a steady man I’m told. But only time will tell.

Gros:

Yes. There’s no point causing concern before we’ve even begun. Would you like a drink?

Prince:

Yes, I would. (The scene fades.)

Interior: A hotel suite at the Grand Hotel in Luxeuil, France. Four young men lounge about drinking and smoking. Clyde Balsely, Victor Chapman, Kiffin Rockwell and Bert Hall. They are self assured men with a touch of bravado about them. They are expensively clothed with the exception of Hall who stands a bit off from the rest. Only Hall is in uniform though his uniform is not quite up to snuff. His boots do not shine as brightly as the others who wear whipcord breeches, neckties and jackets. He is not unkempt but his clothes have not had the attention that the others apparently give to their own. A knock is heard on the door.

Rockwell:

Come in. Are you guys expecting anybody?

Balsely:

Room service? (Lufbery enters carrying a large bag).

Lufbery:

You guys the men for the new unit?

Hall:

Yeah. Who are you?

Lufbery:

Name’s Raoul Lufbery.

Chapman:

You’re an American?

Lufbery:

Yes, I am.

Rockwell:

Put your bags down and have a drink. (Puts his hand out.) Glad to meet you. (The others follow suit.) I’m Rockwell, this is Vic Chapman , this is Clyde Balsely and Bert Hall.

Hall:

How do?

Lufbery:

Glad to meet you.

Rockwell:

Have you done much flying?

Lufbery:

Some.

Balsely:

Against the krauts?

Lufbery:

Some. (He makes himself a drink.) Can I make anyone else a drink?

Hall:

Sure thing. (Hands his glass to Lufbery who takes it and pours a drink.) Lufbery, eh? Seems I’ve heard that name somewhere.

Lufbery:

I doubt that.

Hall:

Voisin 106?

Lufbery:

That’s right.

Hall:

Well I’ll be damned. Boys, you just met a real live flyer. Sure to be an ace soon if he’s not one already. Yes, sir. A real live flyer. You have luck with you, Lufbery. You reek of it.

Lufbery:

It’s probably the smell of the train I just got off. I could use a bath.

Rockwell:

How many kills do you have?

Lufbery:

Not very many. You gentlemen go first rate here, don’t you?

Chapman:

Only the best from the grateful citizens of France.

Lufbery:

French officers don’t live this good. I should know. How many hours have you had?

Balsely:

Fifty.

Chapman:

Sixty-eight,

Rockwell:

None. I’ve never been in an airplane. But I’m dying to learn.

Hall:

Though he might express his enthusiasm in better terms.

Lufbery:

Don’t worry about it. You’ll learn quick enough.

Rockwell:

(Takes out a pack of cigarettes. Offers them to Lufbery.) Smoke?

Lufbery:

Thank you. (Takes a cigarette and lights it.)

Hall:

Thank you. (Takes a cigarette and crosses away from the others. Rockwell’s eyes follow him resentfully at first, then they return to Lufbery.)

Balsely:

We should be moving out of here within the next few days. Bar-le-Duc I’ve heard. Do you know anything?

Lufbery:

No, they haven’t told me a thing.

Balsely:

I’d like to get at those krauts.

Chapman:

We will, I’m sure. (The scene fades.)

Exterior: Bar-Le-Duc where Captain Thenault and Captain Haape stand near a runway watching the flyers solo. The first flyer comes in too fast and collapses his undercarriage and slides along the ground until the aircraft stops. The next plane lands heavily and bounces four times before it taxies to a stop. Another plane swipes the side of a building tearing its wings off on that side. Yet another cartwheels tail over head. Finally, one plane comes in heavily but manages to stay on the ground and taxi to a stop.

Haape:

I don’t know if the budget can stand this kind of damage to training craft.

Thenault:

I don’t know if the French economy can take this kind of damage. They land like crockery falling to the floor. Even the veterans like Lufbery land like they are flying lead weights instead of aircraft.

Haape:

It’s better than it looks, Captain. A few adjustments will improve their performance.

Thenault:

It can’t be any worse than it looks. We need these men in the air over the lines, Captain. We have to get them on patrol; our training time is extremely limited, particularly with an offensive expected by the enemy any time now.

Haape:

I understand that. They’ll be ready. A little rough perhaps, but they’ll be in the air within a few weeks. Then, God help the Boche.

Thenault:

God help the Allies. (The scene fades.)

Interior: A cafe in Paris. A gramophone plays a piano recording of "It’s a Long Way to Tipperary". Lufbery, Thaw, Prince and Balsely enter. The bar is full and most of the tables are occupied. The Americans are dressed in French uniforms. The French soldiers at the bar turn to watch the Americans. Calls are made to Lufbery. "Raoul!", "Luf!", "Hey, Raoul!", "Good to see you, Luf!". A Frenchman in bemedaled uniform and using two canes to walk comes over to speak with Lufbery. As they speak quietly, smiling as they do, the three other Americans stand by awkwardly. Lufbery introduces the Frenchman who wears numerous decorations and is quite self assured. He shakes their hands and speaks with them. He then leaves.

Balsely:

(To Lufbery) I didn’t know that you were a friend of Charles Nungesser.

Lufbery:

We’ve known each other for a long time.

Balsely:

You flew together?

Lufbery:

For a few months. Let’s get a table.

Prince:

Our friend Lufbery is a man to watch.

Thaw:

And emulate. This is a bit of all right, isn’t it? I knew I was missing something in those damned trenches.

Lufbery:

This your first time here?

Thaw:

No, but I say that every time I come here to remind me of the early days of the war and my absolute determination to avoid returning to the trenches at all costs.

Rockwell:

What would they want with a man who has bad eyes, poor hearing and a trick knee? You might as well stay in the air. (They find a table and sit. A waiter comes over and they order wine and cognac. The waiter goes away.) This place is always crowded. Don’t people know there’s a war on?

Lufbery:

That’s why it’s always crowded. (A young woman approaches the table The four flyers rise and remain standing.) Madeline, how are you?

Madeline:

I haven’t seen you in some time.

Lufbery:

The war.

Madeline:

Sure.

Lufbery:

I’ve been in training and was just transferred to Bar-le-Duc. I’ve not been to Paris in months. Did you miss me? (He puts his hand on her derriere. She takes it away.)

Madeline:

Aren’t you going to introduce me to your friends?

Lufbery:

Of course. This is Clyde Balsely and this is Norman Prince. That fellow there is John Thaw. (Balsely, Thaw and Price smile and bow slightly. Madeline smiles back.)Are you here alone?

Madeline:

No.

Lufbery:

Oh? (He looks about but says nothing. He sits down. The other two Americans follow suit.)

Madeline:

(After a silent moment during which the waiter returns with two bottles and glasses.) I have three friends with me.

Lufbery:

(To the waiter.) Thank you. (He gives him money and the waiter leaves. Lufbery pours himself a drink while Balsely lights a cigarette.) Help yourselves, gentlemen. (Prince and Balsely pour drinks for themselves.)

Madeline:

Three lady friends.

Lufbery:

Would you and your friends like to join us?

Madeline:

Yes. (She goes off.)

Prince:

You play a dangerous game, Luf. (Madeline returns with three women: Carolyn, Marie and Genevieve. The men rise again.)

Madeline:

This is Carolyn, this is Marie and this is Genevieve.

Balsely:

Please sit down. Let me get another chair. (He takes a chair from the next table and holds it for Marie who sits as do the other ladies. Before the men can sit down, a French airman in uniform approaches while Lufbery is turned away looking for the waiter.)

Airman:

(To Carolyn) What is happening here? You were with me. I leave for a minute and you’re with these people. (Lufbery turns back to the table.) Lufbery! Raoul Lufbery! How are you, Lufbery. (He gives Lufbery a bear hug.)

Lufbery:

Georges. How are you, old friend?

Georges:

Never better. Not a wound or injury to my name. Just got my third kill yesterday. You look great. The Escadrille Americaine, is it? A fine uniform. The unit’s or your own? Where do they have you now?

Lufbery:

Bar-le-Duc.

Georges:

Wonderful. Have you done much flying?

Lufbery:

A fair amount. We’ve been flying over Verdun.

Georges:

Ach! A damned charnel house, those stupid goddamned generals. I’ve been there too. A horror, mud and blood and all for nothing.

Lufbery:

Have you seen Marc?

Georges:

Pourpe? I see him every day; we’re in the same squadron. He’s fine. Just got his second kill a few days ago. I’ll tell him I saw you.

Lufbery:

Good. Why don’t you join us?

Georges:

With pleasure. Where the hell is that goddam waiter? He’s as slow as... Oops! Ladies present. Waiter! Where the hell are you? Oh, there you are. Bring us a bunch of glasses; we can’t drink out of the bottles, you know. And two more bottles. It’s good to see you, Luf.

Lufbery:

And you, Georges. This is Norman Prince John Thaw and Clyde Balsely; they’re in the squadron too.

Georges:

Hello. Stay with Luf here. He’s lucky and some day he’ll be a good flyer. Though never as good as I am of course.

Lufbery:

You know the ladies I presume.

Georges:

Know them? I’m in love with them. I was about to ask all four of them to marry me when the necessity of emptying my bladder called me away and when I returned they had abandoned me. That’s why I came in search of them and found you, my friend. (The waiter returns with two more bottles and a number of glasses.) It’s about time. A man could die of thirst here. We should go to another cafe where the service is better.

Waiter:

No, Monsieur. Another cafe would not put up with you.

Georges:

(Laughs) You’ve got me there. (He pays the waiter.) There you are.

Waiter:

Thank you, Monsieur. (He goes.)

Prince:

He seems to know you well.

Madeline:

Everybody knows Georges well. And those who don’t know him can hear him.

Genevieve:

They can hear him everywhere.

Georges:

Yes, it is my misfortune to have been born with a booming voice. The comfort of the affliction is that the entire world can hear me speak of my undying love for you.

Carolyn:

I thought that it was me that you love.

Georges:

It is, mon cherie, it is. And Marie too.

Marie:

No thank you. I prefer my men to be loyal to one woman.

Lufbery:

Then don’t fall in love with a flyer.

Georges:

Thank you, Luf. We are on this earth a shorter time than others, even the cannon fodder in the trenches if the truth be known, even they live longer than we do. We must fit a great deal of life into a very brief time. We cannot afford such luxuries as monogamy.

Marie:

I still prefer loyalty.

Georges:

Loyalty has nothing to do with it. Loyalty is what we owe to France. That is indivisible and unalterable. Love is another thing.

Genevieve:

You don’t mean love, you mean sex.

Balsely:

(To Marie) And how loyal are you when your man is away fighting?

Marie:

To you I would be as loyal as a puppy dog.

Georges:

A conquest for the brave American. Let’s drink to that. (He pours drinks for everybody) To love and loyalty.

All:

To love and loyalty.

Prince:

I want to see what music they have for that gramophone. (He rises.)

Carolyn:

I’ll go with you. (They go off.)

Madeline:

Another conquest?

Lufbery:

Apparently. (The gramaphone soon plays "There’s a Long, Long Road" Georges begins to sing along in a horrible voice. The Americans laugh at him but soon join him in the song. When it ends they all applaud. Then, the gramaphone plays a tinny version of "The Blue Danube" to which Lufbery dances with Madeline and the others dance with the women as the scene fades.)

Interior: A bedroom where Lufbery lies on the bed. Genevieve looks out the window through a curtain. She is naked and smoking a cigarette. Neither speaks for a long moment. Lufbery drinks from a glass on the lamp table next to the bed. Then he lights a cigarette.)

Lufbery:

What do you see that so interests you through that window.

Genevieve:

Nothing. I was thinking of Madeline. She loves you.

Lufbery:

I’ve known Madeline a long time. She doesn’t love me; she loves flyers.

Genevieve:

Especially you. I can understand why.

Lufbery:

Can you?

Genevieve:

Yes. You’re a good man, not a loud mouth or a braggart. You’re a gentleman and you’re brave and handsome. One could ask for no more.

Lufbery:

Then why the melancholy?

Genevieve:

I’m not as strong as Madeline and some of the others. I can’t fall in love with a man who may be burned alive tomorrow.

Lufbery:

Don’t say that. Don’t even think it. I’ll never burn. Never.

Genevieve:

So, I have gotten through the great Lufbery reserve, have I? Have I touched a nerve or is it the great Lufbery’s soul that I’ve touched?

Lufbery:

Come over here.

(She goes to the lamp table and puts her cigarette out in the ashtray that is there. Lufbery also puts his out as she goes around the bed and gets in. He pulls her close to him and puts his arm around her. He kisses her.) There is nothing more frightening than burning to death; the thought of it makes me shudder.

Genevieve:

Then we won’t talk about it. This is no time for talk of death anyway.

Lufbery:

This is no time for talk of anything. (They kiss as the scene fades.)

Chapman:

Luf, have you heard the news?

Lufbery:

What news?

Chapman:

Balsely’s been wounded.

Lufbery:

How?

Chapman:

He went up on a patrol with the captain, Rockwell, Clyde and Prince. They were jumped by the whole damned Boche air fleet. The others got away all right but Balsely was trapped and had to fight his way clear. He took a bullet in his leg.

Lufbery:

Where is he?

Chapman:

The hospital at Luxeuil.

Lufbery:

We should go visit him and see how he is.

Chapman:

Visit him? It’ll take hours to get there.

Lufbery:

Not by air.

Chapman:

No, not by air. We should bring him something. Flowers?

Lufbery:

Fruit? I have a basket in my room that I was going to give to a lady.

Chapman:

That’s much better than flowers. Especially for a man.

Lufbery:

I think so. Prince will want to go; they’re very close.

Chapman:

Is there something so wrong with that?

Lufbery:

Yes, there could be. You go find Prince and get into your gear; I’ll get the fruit. (The scene ends.)

Exterior: The air above France where the three craft fly calmly, Lufbery in the lead, Chapman and Prince behind him. Lufbery scouts the air looking about constantly, continuously on guard against unexpected attack. The other two do not do the same; they seem to believe that they are out for a lark, as though the war is stopped while they visit their friend. Suddenly, five German planes appear out of the clouds and dive at them. Lufbery spotted them early enough to take evasive action. Prince and Chapman saw him do so and did the same. An aerial battle begins. Lufbery comes around and down on the German formation firing his machine gun. Prince drops down and circles beneath the formation firing up at it. Chapman attempts to get behind it. The formation breaks rank and picks American planes to follow. Two follow Chapman, two follow Prince, one attacks Lufbery. Lufbery and his opponent circle attempting to get behind each other. Prince dives to evade the enemy, Chapman circles, climbs, dives and circles again. Prince makes a short circle and comes up under one of his pursuers and fires into him. The enemy machine falls. Lufbery gets behind his adversary and fires at him. The enemy smokes, flames and falls. Prince continues trying to evade his pursuer but his plane receives a number of wounds as he does so. Chapman is caught between his two enemies who both fire into his aircraft. He is shot and the plane is riddled. It falls in flames, its pilot already dead. Lufbery comes down on Prince’s pursuer and chases him away. The remaining three Germans flee with Lufbery and Prince after them, firing at them. However, they escape. Prince and Lufbery head for their base.

Exterior: The airdrome where Prince and Lufbery land. Rockwell runs up to them.

Rockwell:

You guys all right?

Prince:

Yeah. I’m all right but we lost Chapman. (He examines the damage to his plane.)

Rockwell:

I know. We saw the whole thing. You both did a terrific job.

Lufbery:

We didn’t get the son of a bitch who got Chapman though. We should’ve got him.

Rockwell:

The captain wants you to make a full report and be debriefed by the exec.

Lufbery:

All right. (He walks away.)

Prince:

If Luf hadn’t spotted those Boche we’d all be toast. Chapman and I were out on a holiday; he was doing his job.

Rockwell:

Yeah. He knows what he’s doing all right. And you’ll know that you have to be constantly alert up there next time.

Prince:

I should already know that. All of us should already know that. (They walk toward the barracks as the scene fades.)

Interior: The Hotel Chatham bar where a large number of servicemen stand at the bar drinking. Women sit at the tables, many with servicemen both French and British. Lufbery enters. A group of men at the bar greet him. He smiles and waves acknowledgment. They clear a space for him at the bar. "Magnum of Dom Perignon" he says to the barman who gives it to him. He pays for it and exits.

Interior: A hotel suite where Lufbery sits on a couch in the sitting room smoking and listening to the rain outside the windows behind him. The champagne is in a bucket of ice on a small table, like a coffee table, before him but it is unopened. Two glasses stand before the bucket and a glass ashtray is next to it. Charmain,a young woman, enters. She is well dressed in a floor length gown and wears a feathered comb in her hair. She stops when she sees Lufbery, looks at him closely, then at the champagne and the glasses.

Charmain:

You take chances, Lieutenant.

Lufbery:

You’re worth taking chances for.

Charmain:

I could call hotel security and have you escorted from the premises.

Lufbery:

There’s no need of that. If you wish me to leave, you need only say as much and I’ll go. (Charmain says nothing; she merely stands where she is looking at him for a long moment.) Shall I pour the champagne?

Charmain:

Louis will be very angry. He will come looking for you. He’s a violent man.

Lufbery:

That’s all right. How much better to die for the love of a woman like you than to fall from the sky, the victim of a German bullet.

Charmain:

You’re mad.

Lufbery:

Perhaps. Shall I open this bottle?

Charmain:

You don’t believe me. You don’t believe that I will tell Louis.

Lufbery:

Tell Louis whatever you like.

Charmain:

You don’t believe that he’s violent.

Lufbery:

Of course I do. One so lovely as you could not possibly lie. The champagne?

Charmain:

You don’t believe that there is such a person.

Lufbery:

I don’t care.

Charmain:

There is and he will be angry.

Lufbery:

I have no doubt. Would you like to taste the champagne now?

Charmain:

You’re mad.

Lufbery:

I’m madly in love. (He opens the champagne, pours two glasses, replaces the bottle in the bucket and hands one of the filled glasses to Charmain. She is reluctant at first, but then she takes it from him. He smiles and toasts her.)

Charmain:

This is a patriotic duty.

Lufbery:

Of course. How far does patriotism reach?

Charmain:

Not so far as you would like, Lieutenant. Of that you may be sure.

Lufbery:

Who can be sure of anything in this world? Except one’s own madness perhaps.

Charmain:

You’ve charmed many a lady, haven’t you?

Lufbery:

If you wish to think so.

Charmain:

You have a reputation.

Lufbery:

Surely you don’t credit gossip, especially gossip about flyers.

Charmain:

Of course not. Is there any truth to the gossip?

Lufbery:

I haven’t heard the gossip, so I can’t reply to it. I will say that I spend a great deal of time working and flying which leaves little time for anything else.

Charmain:

That makes sense. (Lufbery refills her glass and his own. He then offers her a cigarette which she refuses with a shake of her head. He asks with gestures whether she objects to his smoking. She again shakes her head. He lights a cigarette using a lighter from his trouser pocket.) You were right.

Lufbery:

About what?

Charmain:

There is no Louis. I made him up to discourage overanxious men.

Lufbery:

Was I overanxious?

Charmain:

No. That’s why I told you. (She crosses to the couch and sits. Lufbery joins her as the scene fades.)

Exterior: A montage of aerial combats in which Lufbery shoots down a large number of German planes. It demonstrates that he is not a wildman but a methodical, businesslike fighter pilot.

Interior: Lufbery sits at a table at Harry’s Bar in Paris. A number of American newspapermen sit at the table with him. Lufbery is smoking and has a drink in front of him.

First Newsman:

What is it like shooting down an enemy aircraft?

Lufbery:

It’s like a game. One pretends that the machine that you have sent hurtling through space like a falling cigarette butt does not have a man or men in it. It is you against a machine rather than one man against another.

Second Newsman:

That machine doesn’t go up there and do rolls and bluffs by itself or fire its own machine guns.

Lufbery:

As I said, it’s a game.

Third Newsman:

A deadly game.

First Newsman:

Which of your kills are you most proud of?

Lufbery:

We do not talk about specific actions.

Third Newsman:

Is it bad luck?

Lufbery:

It’s bad manners. It’s too much like boasting; one does not boast about the lives one has taken.

Second Newsman:

Rene Fonck does. (Lufbery drinks rather than respond.)

Third Newsman:

Where were you born?

Lufbery:

Here.

Third Newsman:

Here in France?

Second Newsman:

Is it true that your father is living in the United States?

Lufbery:

As far as I know. Cleveland.

Second Newsman:

That’s good.

Lufbery:

How do you mean?

Second Newsman:

It’s good that the highest scoring American ace has an American connection.

Lufbery:

I am an American, as American as you though I was not born there. I was in the United States Army and spent two years in the Philipines. That’s connection enough.

Second Newsman:

I meant no offense.

Lufbery:

None taken.

First Newsman:

What plane do you prefer to fly?

Lufbery:

The Spad. It’s a workhorse, it’s reliable and it’s a good fighter that can take punishment. It’s a bit slower than I would like but that’s its only drawback.

Third Newsman:

The French should be coming out with a new Nieuport soon. Will you try one of those?

Lufbery:

Of course. We have to keep up with changes or be shot out of the sky.

First Newsman:

If there is one thing that you fear as a flyer, what is it?

Lufbery:

Foolish questions. They scare the hell out of me. Have a drink, gentlemen. A drink to the end of the war.

Third Newsman:

If the United States gets into the war, will you switch to the American service?

Lufbery:

That depends.

Second Newsman:

On what?

Lufbery:

On whether I’m still alive, on whether the United States has an air arm and on whether they want me. Enough questions. Drink. (Raises his hand to the waiter and calls.) Marcel! Another bottle. (The scene fades.)

Exterior: A number of aircraft are silhouetted against the sky. They are four French and Four German. Two German go down. The other two German planes flee. Two French go after them. One of the Germans turns quickly and fires at the two Frenchmen. One is hit and falls burning. The other turns back as the Germans escape.

Exterior: Two French flyers stand near the downed French airplane which continues to burn.

First Flyer:

A lucky shot hit his gas tank.

Second Flyer:

I hope he was gone before the flames got to him.

First Flyer:

Someone will have to tell Luf.

Second Flyer:

I’ll do it. (The scene fades.)

Interior: Lufbery’s room where he reclines on his bed smoking and reading letters aloud to James Hall and Prince who sit in wooden chairs. The three are dressed in uniform but the open buttons and the general air of relaxation demonstrate that they are off duty.

Lufbery:

My dear Capitan Lufbery, I have read the news stories of you and the men with which you fly and would like to thank you for coming all the way from America to help France defeat the Boche. If you would come alone to blah, blah, blah, a gentleman cannot reveal such an address, fellas, you understand.

Prince:

Of course.

Hall:

No more need be said. It would be monstrous for you to reveal the address, Luf. We agree.

Lufbery:

Thank you.

Hall:

Someone might get there before you. (The three laugh. There is a commotion outside. The door bursts open and Thaw comes into the room carrying a lion cub. He has been drinking.)

Thaw:

I need milk for my pussy cat.

Prince:

Where the hell did you get that?

Hall:

What is it?

Thaw:

What do you think it is? It’s a lion. Got any milk, Luf?

Lufbery:

No. Have you tried the mess hall?

Thaw:

Give me that. (He takes Hall’s drink, empties a saucer and pours the drink into it. He puts the saucer of whiskey on the floor and puts the lion down. The lion drinks the whiskey.)

Hall:

He’s one of us.

Lufbery:

Just what we need.

Thaw:

A mascot. He is our squadron mascot. What should we call him?

Prince:

Since he enjoys whiskey so much....

Hall:

Just the thing. Whiskey.

Thaw:

Just the thing.

Prince:

Where the hell did you get him?

Thaw:

Answered an ad in the paper seeking a home for a lion cub. I bought him with money from the mess.

Lufbery:

I hope you got his mother’s permission. I’d hate to have her come looking for him. Do you know how much they eat?

Thaw:

This is no time to be practical, Luf. This is war.

Lufbery:

You’ve got me there.

Hall:

Where are you going to keep him?

Thaw:

We’ll build a pen for him behind Hangar Three,

Prince:

We? What do you have a frog in your pocket? (The others laugh.)

Lufbery:

I’ll help you, John.

Thaw:

I knew you would, Luf. The rest of you guys can go to hell in a wheelbarrow.

Hall:

Now don’t be that way. What does he eat?

Lufbery:

People.

Prince:

Germans I hope. And lots of them. He could probably use some milk right now though.

Thaw:

You’re right. He’s had enough whiskey for one day. I’ll take him over to the mess hall.

Hall:

Don’t let the C.O. see him.

Lufbery:

Or the cook. The food’s bad enough. (Thaw exits with the cub.)

Hall:

I’d better get over the orderly room and check tomorrow’s orders.

Prince:

Me too. Coming, Luf?

Lufbery:

Yeah. Just give me a minute. (There’s a knock on the door.) Come in. (The first soldier enters. He is carrying his hat in his hand and appears uncomfortable with his mission.) Jaimie! What brings you down here?

Jaimie:

Hello, Luf. How are you?

Lufbery:

I’m fine.

Jaimie:

I have some personal news for you.

Prince:

We’ll wait for you, Luf. (Lufbery nods, looking concerned. Prince and Hall exit.)

Lufbery:

What is it?

Jaimie:

Marc’s gone west. Over near Aix le Chapel. Yesterday.

Lufbery:

Are you sure?

Jaimie:

I saw the whole thing and found his plane with him still in it. I’m sorry.

Lufbery:

Thanks for telling me. (He sits on the bed and stares at the floor. Jaimie leaves without saying anything more.)

Interior: Jaimie comes out of Lufbery’s room and closes the door behind him. Hall and Prince are standing outside smoking. Jaimie approaches them.

Jaimie:

I don’t think he’ll be joining you. Marc Pourpe was killed yesterday.

Hall:

I thought it was something like that.

Prince:

Were they close?

Jaimie:

Closer than brothers. Luf joined up because of Pourpe. They worked together in a traveling air show.

Hall:

Poor bastard. (The scene fades.)

Exterior: The squadron is in the midst of an air battle; five Lafayette planes against seven Germans. One of the Germans goes down in flames, Thaw’s plane follows him to the ground. Lufbery is caught by three enemy aircraft, one behind and one on each side. One of the planes on his side is a two seater with a machine gunning observer in the rear seat who is firing at him while the plane on his tail is also firing. Lufbery loops and dives attempting to evade them. His plane is struck numerous times but he remains unhurt. After a long chase he heads for a cloud. When the plane that has him bracketed speeds up to cut him off, Lufbery drops down and quickly comes up under him and shoots him down. He then dives to evade the other two. When they come down after him, he turns quickly and heads back for the cloud where he conceals himself. When he comes out the other side of the cloud, the enemy is gone and the sky is empty.

Prince:

Am I glad to see you. I thought they had you when they bracketed you up there. Even when you got the one in front of you, I thought you were a goner.

Lufbery:

I got into a cloud. When I came out they were gone. Where were you?

Prince:

I followed my kill all the way down to make sure he wasn’t playing possum.

Lufbery:

Did we lose anybody?

Prince:

Rockwell. He came down on the other side. The machines took an awful beating as well.

Lufbery:

Not a good day.

Prince:

No, it wasn’t. I’m for a stiff drink. How about you?

Lufbery:

Not right now. I think I’d like to pick some mushrooms.

Prince:

Pick mushrooms! (Lufbery walks away without responding while Prince watches him. The scene fades.)

Interior: A brothel where the camera moves past the faces of beautiful women of all races and colors and ages. The camera moves into a parlor where a number of servicemen sit and stand drinking and talking among themselves and with the women. The camera finds Lufbery sitting on a couch with a pretty young lady. He is talking to a reporter.

Reporter:

This is not the kind of place I expected to be interviewing an American hero.

Lufbery:

This is the kind of place where American heroes relax. And French and British too. You should write that.

Reporter:

I can’t do that. The American people like their servicemen to be clean and moral.

Woman:

(In French) What did he say?

Lufbery:

(In French) He said that the American people don’t like to read that there men go to whore houses.

Woman:

Why?

Lufbery:

They don’t think its clean.

Woman:

Not Clean! I’ll give the bastard clean. (She tries to attack the reporter but Lufbery stops her and sends her away.) I’ll scratch his eyes out and cut off his balls. I’m as clean as his mother. (She exits.)

Reporter:

What did I say to get her so worked up?

Lufbery:

She thought that you were demeaning her profession. Some are very sensitive about that.

Reporter:

She must be. A lot of men unwind here, don’t they?

Lufbery:

Here and other places like it.

Reporter:

I’ll be as brief as possible. We’re doing a piece on the Lafayette Escadrille and since you’re the unit’s highest scoring ace, I’d like the piece to feature you. Do you mind?

Lufbery:

No, not really. I’ve been interviewed quite a few times by American and French newsmen.

Reporter:

That’s because you’re good copy. What do you think of the American boys’ flying ability?

Lufbery:

You mean Americans besides myself?

Reporter:

Of course.

Lufbery:

They’re very good, though like all flyers they need training and experience. But the Americans flying over here are as good as any aviators on either side.

Reporter:

There are reports that America may soon enter the war with the Allies. Will you remain in the French air service or will you and the other members of the squadron transfer to the American air service?

Lufbery:

I hope that the United States will soon enter the war and help to bring it to an end. But I don’t know what I’ll do when and if they do. Of course I cannot speak for my squadron mates.

Reporter:

You’ve done an awful lot of flying and fighting these last two and a half years; will you be looking for a desk job anytime soon?

Lufbery:

A desk job? They’ll have to carry me out of a wreck first. I couldn’t function in a desk job.

Reporter:

The other members of the squadron look up to you not only as a ranking officer but as a man. Does that make you feel peculiar or different in any way?

Lufbery:

I’ve never noticed it and I don’t think it exists, not the way you mean it. I’m a bit older than the others and I’m the highest ranking flyer but besides that, but except for the courtesies that military law and tradition require for my rank, I’ve noticed no particular deference paid to me.

Reporter:

Thank you, Captain.

Lufbery:

You should stay and enjoy the fruits of our unclean living.

Reporter:

I’d love to but I have a deadline to meet. Maybe another time. Good luck, Captain Lufbery. It was a pleasure talking with you.

Lufbery:

Thank you. (They shake hands as the scene fades.)

Exterior: A Spad lands and taxis to a stop. The pilot hops out as the ground crew examines the craft. When the pilot removes his leather helmet, he is revealed as Hall. Balsely approaches walking with a cane. He holds a paper in his hand and waves it excitedly. However, when he approaches Hall, he seems to sense something wrong and loses his enthusiasm.

Hall:

Hello, Clyde.

Balsely:

Hello, Jim. How did it go?

Hall:

We lost Norm.

Balsely:

Prince?

Hall:

Yeah. And Bayliss too.

Balsely:

Damn.

Hall:

What’s that you have there?

Balsely:

What? Oh...Oh! (He becomes excited again.) America’s in. She declared war on Germany yesterday. Fritz is kaput.

Hall:

That’s great. That’s great! The Boche’ll put up one hell of a fight before they all get here though. He’s got to try to win the war before our armies are thrown in against him.

Balsely:

You’re probably right. This means we can all transfer to the American air force and fly for our own country.

Hall:

That will mean the end of the Lafayette.

Balsely:

It may be a blessing in disguise. Whiskey and Soda are getting big enough to eat us all.

Hall:

You think the president declared law to save us from a couple of goddam lions?

Balsely:

I don’t care why so long as it means a quicker end to this thing.

Hall:

We’ll see. (The scene fades.)

Interior: The Hotel Crillon where Lufbery sits at a table drinking with Madeline.

Madeline:

So Mr. great fighter ace Raoul Lufbery, what are you going to do? Are you going to remain in the service of France or fly for the Americans?

Lufbery:

America. The entire squadron is transferring. The flag won’t make much difference though. It’ll be the same war, the same sky, the same fields probably.

Madeline:

(She raises her glass) To the Americans.

Lufbery:

(He raises his glass.) To the Americans.

Madeline:

I must go now. I have an appointment with an important person.

Lufbery:

What do you mean an important person?

Madeline:

Just what I said. You shouldn’t be lonely though. I"ve heard that Genevieve is free.

Lufbery:

You’re hurt.

Madeline:

No.

Lufbery:

And still angry:

Madeline:

No.

Lufbery:

You’re also jealous.

Madeline:

No.

Lufbery:

You wish to possess without being possessed.

Madeline:

Horse apples.

Lufbery:

Don’t talk like that.

Madeline:

I’ll talk as I like. I must go now.

Lufbery:

Madeline:

Au Revoir, Mr. Raoul Lufbery, fighter ace. (Lufbery waves to the waiter who comes over.)

Lufbery:

Another cognac.

Madeline:

And for me.

Lufbery:

You’re leaving.

Madeline:

After I drink some of your money.

Lufbery:

Two cognacs. (The scene fades.)

Exterior: The field where Thaw and his mechanic look over damage to his plane. Kurt, supply NCO, approaches.

Kurt:

I wouldn’t worry too much about that damage if I were you, sir.

Thaw:

And why is that?

Kurt:

The United States of America has entered the war. President Wilson signed the declaration yesterday. You’ll soon be flying an American plane for the American Army.

Thaw:

Where did you hear that?

Kurt:

That the U.S. is in the war?

Thaw:

Yes.

Kurt:

The newspapers, sir. If you check in the orderly room, I’m sure you’ll find confirmation.

Thaw:

I’ll do just that. (He goes off.)

Mechanic:

(To Kurt) Do you think they’ll transfer?

Kurt:

Yup.

Mechanic:

It’s the trenches for us then.

Kurt:

Maybe for you. I’m an American; I’m going with them, bad eyes and all.

Mechanic:

Maybe you could take me?

Kurt:

Maybe. It’ll be up to Captain Lufbery. He’ll probably be the new C.O. I’ll mention it to him. Have you ever been to America?

Mechanic:

No.

Kurt:

Do you have any relatives in America?

Mechanic:

No.

Kurt:

I’ll have to tell him you’re my cousin.

Mechanic:

Thank you.

Kurt:

You’d better get that damage patched; we’re not with an American unit yet. And don’t use too much canvas. We’re running low on it. (Kurt walks away as the mechanic goes back to work. The scene fades.)

Exterior: An air field where Lufbery, now in the uniform of an American major, inspects a number of aircraft. The mechanic and Kurt are with him as are Hall and Thaw.

Lufbery:

This is not a good joke. Men’s lives are at stake here.

Hall:

They may not even know.

Thaw:

Maybe they’re on the way.

Kurt:

If I may, sir, Captain Hall is probably most close to being right. They probably don’t even know; there’ve been quite a few problems because of inexperience and confusion.

Lufbery:

You may be right but this is basic. We can’t operate like this. How long will it take to install them when they get here?

Mechanic:

Fifteen minutes for each one I figure.

Lufbery:

That’s good. I’ll go in and call them like the good desk officer that I am and find out what’s going on. I hope they’re in a boxcar not too far from here. (He goes off.)

Hall:

That’s our leader.

Thaw:

Going off to lead.

Hall:

It’s a wonderful sight.

Thaw:

You’ll tell your grandchildren.

Hall:

Or they’ll tell me. (The scene fades.)

Interior: Lufbery’s office where he enters and drops his hat on the desk. Behind him is a sash window through which can be seen airplanes taking off and landing in training exercises. Lufbery lights a cigarette. He then picks up the telephone

Lufbery:

Get me G-4 please.....Thank you.....Yes, this is Major Lufbery of the 103rd Pursuit Squadron.....Fine, thank you....Fine.....Yes, thank you....Listen, I’ve just taken delivery of twelve Nieuports.....Yes, they’re excellent airplanes. However, they have no machine guns. They’re unarmed. I hope that the guns have only been delayed.....Please do.....I was afraid of that. We can’t fly into combat without weapons.....I’m sure it is but how long will it take to get the guns?....Would you please do so and get back to me?....Thank you. Goodbye. (He puts the phone down and drops into his chair.) Jesus Christ! (The scene fades.)

Interior: A barracks where a group of young American flyers stand around talking.

Reggie:

We should get to fly pretty soon. I’m getting tired of sitting around here.

Doug:

You and me both. If we don’t get some air time pretty soon, I’ll forget how to fly.

Reggie:

I’m not worried so much about that as about being rusty and fouling up.

Doug:

I don’t think it’ll be much longer. Luf was over at wing this morning about it.

Reggie:

How do you know?

Doug:

I have my sources.

Reggie:

All you have is the clap. (Eddie, a tall, thin lieutenant enters with his gear.)

Eddie:

How are you? Is this the 103rd?

Reggie:

This is it.

Eddie:

Good. Any of these rooms empty?

Reggie:

That one right there.

Eddie:

Thank you. (Eddie goes into the room but soon returns without his gear.) Hello, my name’s Eddie, Eddie Rickenbacker.

Doug:

The race car driver?

Eddie:

I’ve driven a few races. I’m here to fly now though.

Reggie:

I thought that you were driving General Pershing.

Eddie:

I was but Billy Mitchell had engine trouble.

Doug:

I don’t understand.

Eddie:

I was driving the General’s car when I came upon another car that was not moving. I stopped and got out and the Colonel whose car it was had to get somewhere in a hurry. I asked if I could help and he let me look at it. It was a simple problem easily fixed. When he started on his way he told me to call him if I needed anything. I called him and told him I wanted to fly and here I am.

Reggie:

You’re pulling my leg.

Eddie:

No, it really happened just like that.

Doug:

What’s Pershing like?

Eddie:

A general. Doesn’t sleep much, a good man though. Doesn’t care much for the French. And he thinks Haig’s a fool. This is Raoul Lufbery’s unit, isn’t it?

Reggie:

You’ve heard of him?

Eddie:

Me and half the world. How is he?

Doug:

We haven’t seen him yet. He’s been tied up with administration. They sent us planes without guns and he’s been trying to straighten it out.

Eddie:

No guns?

Reggie:

No guns.

Eddie:

But I thought I saw the mechanics installing guns on some Nieuports when I came in here.

Reggie:

You did!

Eddie:

I think so. No, I’m sure I did.

Doug:

Let’s go check, (The three exit as the scene fades.)

Exterior: The field where a group of about fifteen young Americans in uniform stand about watching the mechanic install guns on a Nieuport. Reggie, Eddie and Doug join them. Lufbery and Thaw approach the group talking to each other as they do so.

Thaw:

Why don’t you let me take the chicks up the first time, Luf. You’re the C.O. for Chrissake. Suppose they get you shot down?

Lufbery:

When was the last time you were up?

Thaw:

A few days ago.

Lufbery:

Nine days to be exact. I understand your anxiety but I will take the first patrol. As C.O. it’s my duty.

Thaw:

Well, at least take me with you.

Lufbery:

There are not enough machines with guns mounted. You’ll get your opportunity. We’re fully operational now. (The young pilots come to attention and salute. Lufbery returns the salute.) As you were. (The young pilots separate to let Lufbery and Thaw pass.) How many already have guns mounted?

Mechanic:

Three, sir. Those right there.

Lufbery:

Have the guns been tested?

Mechanic:

They’re ready to go.

Lufbery:

Good. You’re doing well; keep it up.

Mechanic:

Thank you, sir. (The mechanic goes back to work while Lufbery turns and looks at the young pilots. He addresses Doug.) What’s your name, Lieutenant?

Doug:

Campbell, sir. (Lufbery turns to Eddie.)

Lufbery:

And your name?

Eddie:

Rickenbacker, sir.

Lufbery:

The race car driver?

Eddie:

Yes, sir.

Lufbery:

You two get your gear; you’re going on patrol with me.

Doug:

Yes, sir. (Doug and Eddie hurry off as Lufbery turns to the other pilots.)

Lufbery:

You will all get your chance, and then some. As the planes are armed we’ll take them up. You should all be in the air no later than day after tomorrow. Captain Thaw will give you your assignments. Good luck to you all and welcome to the squadron. (He goes toward one of the planes as the scene fades.)

Exterior: The three aircraft fly in "V" formation with Lufbery in the lead. The two young pilots signal to each other and smile with pride. They look down at the ground below and up above them and to the sides as they move through a blue sky decorated with cotton puff clouds. Lufbery sees something in the distance but does not alert the two pilots with him. It disappears and he resumes his habit of methodically watching the sky moving his head from side to side and up and down slowly. After a few moments Eddie and Doug settle down and watch the sky as they move through it. After some minutes anti-aircraft fire bursts around them. The new flyers are frightened but Lufbery continues on as though oblivious. After some time of uneventful flying, Lufbery signals to them that it is time to return to the field and they follow him back where the three land without incident.

Exterior: The field where Lufbery, Doug and Eddie get out of their airplanes. Doug and Eddie are now serious, real veterans of the air war. The three walk together toward the barracks.

Lufbery:

Did either of you see anything up there?

Doug:

No, sir. I didn’t.

Eddie:

Except for sky, and the archie of course, neither did I.

Lufbery:

Did you see any enemy planes?

Eddie:

No, sir.

Doug:

Neither did I. Were there any?

Lufbery:

There was a flight of seven Fokkers to the northeast. Fortunately they were headed away from us and didn’t see us up there. You guys have got to learn how to search the sky; your lives depend on it. The earlier you see an enemy plane, the better able you are to either avoid him or fight him on your own terms. When you’re in the air, sweep the sky with your eyes. Don’t focus on anything unless something appears out of the ordinary. For instance, if you concentrate on a specific spot, you will not see the rest of the sky, but if you sweep the sky without concentrating on any single area, you will pick up anything that doesn’t belong there like black specs on the horizon that are probably aircraft. Try it next time you go up.

Doug:

Thank you, sir. (They salute. Lufbery returns their salute and walks away as the scene fades.)

Exterior: A montage of aircraft taking off and circling in the sky. A flight of forty planes flies in formation. Another flight of ten fights a slightly smaller enemy formation. A number on both sides falls from the sky. Yet another flight of American airplanes (Spads and Nieuports with the Hat in the Ring insignia) flies towards the lines while down below soldiers are seen attacking the American held trenches while artillery explosions go off in the midst of the attacking Germans. Superimposed on these scenes is a newspaper with a headline that reads "Ludendorf Offensive Begins". In smaller print below the headline is printed: "Enemy Attacks In France Seek To Bring German Victory Before American Armies Can Be Brought Into Action".

Exterior: A group of pilots including Lufbery, Thaw, Rickenbacker, Cambpell, Hall and others pose for a photograph. The men are worn and obviously tired but they smile for the camera. After the photograph has been taken, they break up, most drifting away. A reporter approaches Lufbery.

Reporter:

Can I ask you a few questions, Major?

Lufbery:

Not right now if you please. I have to pick some mushrooms for dinner while we’re on the ground. (He turns and walks away.)

Reporter:

Mushrooms! (He addresses his cameraman.) He’s kidding me, isn’t he?

Photographer:

I don’t know.

Reporter:

Picking mushrooms while an offensive that could decide the war is going on. He must be kidding.

Don’t you think he’s kidding?

Photographer:

Maybe he’s kidding. (Rickenbacker approaches.)

Eddie:

Kidding about what?

Reporter:

Mushrooms.

Eddie:

He’s not kidding. Between flights Luf goes into the woods and picks mushrooms for the mess. They’re a welcome addition.

Reporter:

The highest scoring American ace of the war picks mushrooms as a hobby? I don’t believe it. What’s more, my readers won’t believe it. Maybe he’s gone screwy. All that flying in an open cockpit may have scrambled his brains. Maybe he’s got shell shock. Can pilots get shell shock?

Photographer:

I don’t know.

Eddie:

Don’t talk that way about my friend.

Reporter:

And superior officer?

Eddie:

Is that what you think it is?

Reporter:

No. I just have a big mouth. Please accept my apology.

Eddie:

Accepted.

Reporter:

How about an interview to prove it?

Eddie:

Sure. But we’re on stand by, waiting for orders.

Reporter:

I won’t take much of your time. How do you compare race car driving to combat flying?

Eddie:

There is no comparison. At the end of one competition there’s a finish line, at the end of the other there’s death.

Reporter:

I understand that you have four confirmed kills.

Eddie:

That’s right.

Reporter:

One more and you’ll be an ace. That’s not unlucky is it? I mean to talk about it isn’t unlucky.

Eddie:

No, I don’t think so.

Reporter:

How many unconfirmeds do you think you got?

Eddie:

I don’t count them; I just do my job.

Reporter:

Do you have anything to say to the folks at home?

Eddie:

Just that I’m looking forward to the end of the war and going home like every other guy over here.

Reporter:

Thanks for the time.

Eddie:

That’s all there is?

Reporter:

That’s all. I’ll dress it up before I send it out. Don’t worry, you’re going to be a war hero.

Eddie:

Don’t dress it up too much.

Reporter:

I won’t. Do you think you can get me an interview with Luf?

Eddie:

No. (The scene fades.)

Exterior: The streets of Paris which are in a ferment of activity as motorized vehicles packed with household possessions and people jostle horse drawn vehicles similarly loaded and both of which are jostled by military vehicles. Guns can be heard firing in the distance. Balsely in the uniform of an American captain walks along a crowded street aided by a cane. He carries a briefcase and moves along swiftly. Madeline and Genevieve approach from the opposite direction.

Genevieve:

Balsely! Is that you?

Balsely:

Hello, Genevieve. Madeline. I really can’t stop right now; I have to get to headquarters.

Genevieve:

Is Paris lost?

Balsely:

No. This panic is unnecessary. There’s a big battle going on as you can hear but the city is safe. The Boche have failed to break through.

Genevieve:

Oh, thank God. Are you sure?

Balsely:

I’m sure. I’m going to see General Pershing right now. That’s why I’m in such a hurry.

Madeline:

And what about the others? Lufbery?

Balsely:

He’s probably in the air right now, almost our entire compliment of pilots are engaging the enemy. Everything is going to be all right. We think the Boche has shot his load. Oh! Excuse me! There’s no reason to panic or leave the city. We think we’ve broken the momentum of the offensive. He’s even been thrown back in some sectors. It’ll all be in the afternoon papers. You don’t have to go anywhere.

Madeline:

Have you seen Lufbery?

Balsely:

Not since the battle began. Our losses have been heavy on the ground but light in the air. We thought we might lose the city there for a while but we managed to hold on.

Genevieve:

God bless you Americans. We would be lost without you.

Balsely:

We only helped. The British and your countrymen took the lead.

Madeline:

I don’t think she’s talking about the battle. Where is Lufbery stationed?

Balsely:

Abbeville. I have to hurry now. I have to see the general.

Genevieve:

Go and thank you.

Madeline:

God bless. All of you. And tell all the others that they are in my prayers.

Balsely:

You’ll be able to tell them yourself soon. (He hurries off . The two women do the same but in the opposite direction. The scene fades.)

Interior: Abbeville airdrome where the pilots come into the mess hall and drop into their chairs demonstrating that they are near to exhaustion. All are there: Lufbery, Rickenbacker, Sinclair, Thaw, Hall, and others. An enlisted man approaches.

Lufbery:

Cognac for all.

Enlisted man:

Yes, sir.

Hall:

I am too exhausted to move. I’ll have to be fed.

Thaw:

I have to go to the latrine but don’t have the energy, or the strength to hold it up while it spits.

Lufbery:

You’d all best do what you can to refresh yourselves. We may have to go up again.

Eddie:

Do you really think so?

Lufbery:

No, but we can’t assume.

Thaw:

You’re always right, Luf. (He rises and shuffles off.)

Eddie:

(To Hall) Aren’t you going with him?

Hall:

I don’t feel the call and he can hold it himself. (The enlisted man passes glasses of cognac around.) This is what I need, not wise remarks.

Doug:

Do I detect a complaint from the master of mirth?

Hall:

You’re right. I’m a bit grumpy after all that flying today.

Eddie:

I think we broke Gerry today. This may be the turning point of the whole war. What do you think, Luf?

Lufbery:

I don’t know. Even if it is the turning point and has turned in our favor, the Boche are not broken. They still have millions of men and have only this front to defend. Two, three more years. Yes, 1920 or 1921, that’s when it will finally end.

Doug:

I wish I could disagree with you. Maybe with a little luck we can wind it up next year.

Eddie:

I hope so. Three more years of this and there will be nobody left.

Lufbery:

Certainly not any of us. (Thaw returns.)

Thaw:

It can’t last that much longer. The Boche has to be tired and with two million Americans here, he’ll have to see that all is lost before too long.

Hall:

They’re not just going to throw in the towel because we’re here. It’s going to take a lot more blood to beat them.

Eddie:

I’m afraid you’re right. We can still lose though, even with two million Americans here. We’re still fighting in France, not in Germany. We’ve got to push him out and then push him back to Berlin. That’s not going to be easy.

Doug:

I’m too tired to care.

Lufbery:

We’d better all get some sleep. We’ll win the war after we wake up.

Hall:

Do you promise?

Lufbery:

I promise. (They all rise and shuffle off as the scene fades.)

Interior: The Hotel Crillon bar where Thaw, Balsely, Hall and others sit at a group of tables. There are many women with the group including Genevieve and Madeline. They are making merry at the knowledge that the German offensive has been stopped and the fliers have been given leave while the Allies regroup for a counter-offensive that they hope will force the Germans out of France.

Hall:

To the Allies.

Thaw:

To the Allies and the air service.

Another Flier:

To the end of this damned war.

All:

Hear, hear!

Madeline:

(To Balsely) Where is Lufbery. Doesn’t he like Paris anymore?

Balsely:

I really don’t know. (To Thaw) Where’s Luf got off to?

Thaw:

Nowhere. He’s back at the field catching up on paper work and picking mushrooms.

Madeline:

Mushrooms! What does that mean? Is that a new military term, "Picking mushrooms"?

Thaw:

Actually, I believe it’s an old agricultural term.

Madeline:

What do you mean?

Hall:

Take it easy now. What we mean is that Luf’s picking mushrooms. That’s what he does now when he’s not flying or doing paper work, he goes into the woods and hunts for mushrooms.

Genevieve:

Has he gone crazy?

Hall:

If he has, I hope I go crazy soon. At least I’ll eat well.

Thaw:

Yeah. He’s done yeoman’s work improving the dreck that passes for food in this man’s army. The cook prays for him because since he’s been giving him the mushrooms he finds, nobody’s threatened the cook’s life.

Genevieve:

Are you talking about the same Raoul Lufbery that we know?

Hall:

The very same.

Genevieve:

He must have gone crazy. The war does that. One man came home from the front to see his wife and killed her so that he wouldn’t miss her while he was away again. The war will make us all crazy.

Madeline:

If you call him crazy again you won’t survive the war.

Thaw:

Now ladies, let’s not get angry here. This is a celebration and we’ve seen enough violence. If Luf wants to join us he will. Let’s have some more wine.

Madeline:

(To Genevieve) You infuriate me sometimes.

Genevieve:

The war has made you crazy. And jealous. (Thaw begins singing "Mademoiselle from Armentieres". One by one the others join in until all are singing it as the scene fades.)

Exterior: The airfield where the camera goes about the field recording mechanics working on airplanes, soldiers cleaning and painting and smoothing the earth around the landing strips. Entire squadrons of Spads and Nieuports are lined up, freshly painted and cleaned and repaired. The camera finds Eddie, Doug and others sitting outside their barracks smoking, drinking coffee and enjoying the Spring weather.

Doug:

Everything looks awfully pretty, doesn’t it?

Eddie:

Including us.

Doug:

It’s all for the newspapers. When the fighting heats up again, this place will look just like Bar-le-Duc and all the others.

Flier:

Maybe the fighting won’t heat up again.

Doug:

Maybe the sky is green.

Eddie:

It’s not very likely to remain peaceful, is it? (The sound of an airplane motor can be faintly heard.) What’s that? (The men look up at the sky shading their eyes with their hands and their hats. The scene fades.)

Interior: Lufbery’s office where he sits at his desk going over paper work. He lifts his lit cigarette from its ash tray but stops in mid-motion when he hears the airplane motor. He puts the cigarette down and goes to the window. Unable to see anything, he goes to the door and steps outside where he too looks up at the sky while shading his eyes with his hand.

Exterior: A German Albatross flies over the field. An observer in the back seat takes photographs.

Exterior: The men on the ground see the Albatross.

Eddie:

It’s a reconnaissance plane.

Doug:

You want to go after him or do you want me to do it.

Flier:

Hey! What about me?

Lufbery:

I’ll go after him. (He goes to a line of airplanes and climbs into a Nieuport. The mechanic starts the propeller and Lufbery takes off. He climbs high and circles around the Albatross. The first inclination that the Germans have of him is when they hear his machine guns firing at them. They immediately lose altitude and go into a loop to lose him. Lufbery follows them over the earth and into the sky trying to get behind them for a clear shot. He finally gets the position he wants but his guns jam. He breaks off and bangs at the guns with his hands. Eventually they unjam. He fires them to be sure that they work. Then, he again pursues the Albatross. The Germans watch him gaining on them. Because of the weight of two men, the Albatross is much slower than the Nieuport.

Exterior: The men on the ground watch in horror as Lufbery falls through the air. When he lands, they run to the spot. An ambulance follows. All of the base personnel converge on the spot. They find Lufbery’s body in a flower bed, a few yards from the canal.

THE END