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Luke joined the 27th Aero Squadron in France July 1918, and he proved expert at downing the reconnaissance balloons. The reconnaissance balloons were dangerous targets that were often protected by anti-aircraft guns, cannons, and enemies.
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It was close to midnight when the seven pilots arrived at the 27th Aero Squadron headquarters. 6 out of the 7 were rookies. Frank Luke was already off on the wrong foot with the commander.
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He attacked an enemy balloon, firing 125 rounds. He then shot down two balloons and shot down two Fokkers that tried to get on Luke’s tail. Luke noticed that the balloons were most heavily defended in the daytime. When the night limited the Allied fighters, the drachen were unprotected.
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It was Frank’s worst and best day, he brought down five enemy aircrafts. He lost a close friend, his flying partner, and some others. They were jumped by several German fighters. They infuriated Frank with their formation. Then amazingly destroying three in retaliation.
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Luke’s final flight took place during the Meuse-Argonne Offensive Phase. After having a 14th and 15th victory he landed his aircraft at the French aerodrome at Cicognes where he spent the night. He had engine problems then returned to the 1st Group’s base at Rembercourt the next day and was confronted by Captain Alfred A. He was going to be arrested then without authorization went off on a balloon hunt and Major Hartney canceled the arrest and Luke shot down two balloons and three enemy planes.
