Although a half century has passed since the Lafayette Escadrille first flew into action, the story of the men who formed it and their selfless principles, courage and dedication remains timely. There is always need for men who are capable of seeing ahead, valorous and devoted to a cause. Of course, following the terrible waste of life, the hypocrisies, the blunderings and betrayals of trust of the First World War, causes, altruism and even patriotism became almost passe.