The American airmen faced significant challenges when they arrived at the front lines during combat. They primarily flew in aircraft that were not their own but were instead borrowed, often patched up, and provided by Allied forces. This situation put them at a disadvantage in an already perilous war environment.

In addition to their inferior aircraft, these airmen entered combat with minimal training compared to their opponents. They were up against experienced enemies, flying in planes that were often second-rate and unreliable, making their missions even more hazardous. This disparity highlights the difficulties faced by American pilots during this critical period.