Philip Babcock served in the 88th Aero Squadron during World War I, doubling as the group’s unofficial historian. He was awarded the Distinguished Service Cross and Silver Star Citation for his achievements.

Philip Rodney Babcock was born on August 12, 1893 in Lynn, Massachusetts to his parents Fredric and Susan Babcock. After graduating high school in Lynn, he attended Massachusetts Agricultural College of Amherst in 1916. The following year Philip entered the U.S. Service and began officer training on June 17, 1917 at Camp Plattsburg. Afterwards, he was sent to the Aviation Ground School at Massachusetts Institute of Technology. After his training, he was enlisted as a flight student in Kelly Field, Texas, but was soon promoted to captain. On August 18, 1917, Philip and the 88th Aero Squadron were deployed from Kelly Field, to Paris, France. Philip Babcock personally fought in battles of Champagne, Verdun Sector, and St. Mihiel. He successfully received all photographic documents he was sent for nearby Squadrons. He was awarded the Distinguished Service Cross and Silver Star Citation while stationed in France for his achievements, including shooting down two German planes. He married Theo E. Jagues (daughter of Allon and Carrie Jagues) and passed away October 1977 in Massachusetts.

The 88th Aero Squadron was a part of United States Third Army. The 88th was a photo reconnaissance, observation, and intelligence gathering squadron whose work was distributed to other squadrons stationed on the Western Front. While stationed in France, the 88th Aero Squadron assisted in battle of Champagne and St. Mihiel. While Philip was in France, he assisted creating flight paths and bombing routes. Most importantly, perhaps, he served as a historian for the squadron and recorded flight times, battles, and any other traffic through the squadron.