Balloons in War.
At the beginning of the
Civil War the telegraphic operations of the army were intrusted to
Maj. Thomas T. Eckert.
In this connection
T. S. C. Lowe, a distinguished aeronaut.
was employed, and for some time balloons were used with great efficiency in reconnoitring, but later in the progress of the war they fell into disuse.
At the height of 500 feet above Arlington House, opposite
Washington.
D. C.,
Mr. Lowe telegraphed to
President Lincoln as follows.
in June, 1861: “Sir.
from this point of observation we command an extent of country nearly 50 miles in diameter.
I have pleasure in sending you the first telegram ever despatched from an aerial station, and acknowledging indebtedness to your encouragement for the opportunity of demonstrating the availability of the science of aeronautics in the service of the country.”
After sending the above despatch,
Mr. Lowe was invited to the
Executive Mansion and introduced to
General Scott: and he was soon afterwards employed in the military service.
When in use. the balloon was kept under control
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by strong cords in the hands of men on the ground, who, when the reconnoissance was ended, drew it down to the place of departure.
During the
Franco-Prussian War (1870-71) balloons were freely used by both parties,
Gambetta and other French authorities passed successfully over the investing lines of Germans; and captive or observation as well as floating balloons were frequent targets for ambitious sharp-shooters.
In the
Santiago campaign in
Cuba, in 1898, much was expected of an observation balloon, put together and operated by men of the
United States  |
|
War balloon. |
Signal Service.
Several successful ascensions were made, and messages describing the situation of the Spaniards were transmitted to
General Shafter's headquarters.
It was found that there were large possibilities in the use of balloons for military purposes, but that there were ever-present elements of danger.
The
Santiago balloon rendered good service at a critical time, but was destroyed by a Spanish shot.
