What was the initial step toward recognizing aviation's impact in warfare?

The establishment of the U.S. Army Air Corps marked a crucial turning point in recognizing aviation's impact in warfare. This formation occurred during a period when military leaders began to understand the strategic advantages that aircraft could provide on the battlefield. By creating the Army Air Corps, the U.S. acknowledged the growing importance of air power, enabling more organized and specialized training for aviators, maintenance personnel, and support staff. This recognition allowed for the integration of aviation into military strategy, which laid the groundwork for future developments in air combat and overall military operations.

In contrast, the formation of the U.S. Air Force occurred later and was a result of the successes and lessons learned during World War II. The Aviation Act and the creation of the Air National Guard also came after the foundational acknowledgment of aviation's significance, focusing more on the expansion and organization of military aviation rather than the initial recognition of its importance in warfare. Therefore, the U.S. Army Air Corps represents the foundational step in this evolution.