77a Squadriglia

After its founding on 31 May 1916, it began flying combat in July 1916, and would operate until the end of World War I.

It was one of the squadrons drawn into late 1917's Battle of Caporetto, and forced to retreat after the Italian defeat.

In March 1917, it began receiving Spad VIIs, which it emblazoned with the squadron symbol of a heart in a white circle.

[1] As the squadron's records have vanished, details of its later wartime service are scarce; one known notable feat was Italy's first night fighter victory on 24 July 1918, scored by Giovanni Ancillotto.

However, when World War I did end, the squadron had flown more than 5,000 combat sorties, engaged its aerial enemies about 250 times, and been credited with 50 victories.