The Squadron Is Formed
Number 202 Squadron was formed out of No.2 Sqn Royal Naval Air Service (RNAS) on 1st April 1918 . The Squadron was based at Bergues in France from it's formation date until it moved to Varssenaere in Belgium on the18th November 1918. The squadron's primary role at this time was reconnaissance and spotting duties in and around the Belgian coastal areas. No 2 Sqn RNAS had been equipped with de Havilland (Airco) D.H.4's, and at the time of the transition and these were transferred to 202 Squadron's inventory. A number of de Havilland D.H.9 aircraft were delivered to the Squadron during May of 1918. However, this variant must have been unpopular with the pilots as they were returned to the depot, and the squadron reverted back to the D.H 4's. (How many of us can remember a particular aircraft that we would have liked to return to the depot!!)
By the middle of September 1918 the offensive was stepping up and 202 Squadron was involved in forward reconnaissance searching for the enemies rearguard and confirming the locations of abandoned villages, airfields and other military sites. It was at this time that 202 moved to Varssenaere, which had been captured by advancing allied troops.
On the cessation of hostilities the squadron moved to Eastburn Airfield, later to become RAF Driffield . A station in Yorkshire, England (Which is no doubt familiar to Squadron members who served with 202 at RAF Leconfield)
The Squadron received it's first Battle Honour during this period for service on the
Number 202 Squadron was disbanded on the 22nd January 1920.
