<hi style=afpcap>When the United States entered World War One there were precious few military aircraft in service which could be employed in combat. Therefore the decision was made for American manufacturers to produce European types with a proven record. This was much more sensible as it alleviated the need to develop suitable aircraft when time was at a premium. Aircraft designs from France and Britain were selected by the Bolling Commission including the de Havilland DH-4 'Liberty Plane' which was the only type built in large numbers. The DH-4 was made entirely of wood and was designed as an observation plane with a light bombing capability. However its performance enabled the DH-4 to be effective as a two-seat fighter. DH-4s were produced at various plants in the USA, with more than 4,800 being built, with a further 7,500 being cancelled when the war ended.</hi>
