Signal Pistol

Although unassuming, flare guns played an essential role in World War I. Flares were used for a number of tasks; from signaling an incoming gas attack, sending a request for aid, or calling for an artillery barrage. The colors of flares varied depending on the message they would send, Green was often associated with gas, while red at times meant either a sign for artillery to begin firing or help was needed.

The type of flare gun pictured was produced by the American Mecanicarm company for the French military from 1917 to 1918. The Model 1917 and 1918 flare guns shot a single flare before needing to be reloaded.

From the Collections of the
First Division Museum at Cantigny