Top Aces of WWI – Signature Edition

The Top Aces of WWI Playing Cards is dedicated to the many flying daredevils who risked their lives for the ultimate thrill of victory. Several of these brave fighters can be seen in the court cards.

“Fight on and fly on to the last drop of blood and the last drop of fuel, to the last beat of the heart.”
– Manfred von Richthofen (AKA The Red Baron)

In World War I, many saw being a pilot as a glamorous role. A position that would take them away from the mud and blood of the front lines. Aviation attracted young, energetic recruits who were keen to be trained in this new way of warfare. The need was high and the training was minimal. If you survived, you had the opportunity to be one of the elite “Flying Aces.”

A Flying Ace, Fighter Ace or Air Ace is a military aviator credited with shooting down several enemy aircraft during aerial combat. The actual number of aerial victories required to officially qualify as an “Ace” has varied, but is usually considered to be five or more. See pictures below.