What is Dawn Patrol?
Dawn Patrol is a board game that simulates World War I aerial combat. It was created in the late 1960's by Mike
Carr and subsequently released in seven editions, the latest produced by TSR Games. The game has been out of print since the
1980's although a new eighth edition is in the works. Dawn Patrol is also sometimes referred to by its original name, Fight
in the Skies, or "Fits."
How can I get a copy of the game?
Copies of Dawn Patrol appear with surprising frequency on E-bay (
www.ebay.com). They are generally available for about $20 US. There are no known retail outlets that carry the game at this time because
it is out of print.
What is the Indy Squadron?
A local Dawn Patrol gaming group formed in Indianapolis in late 1988.
As Dawn Patrol was gaining momentum in the 1970's, gaming groups around the country formed and began playing it. Local
groups cropped up in cities like St. Paul, Milwaukee and Madison, in addition to gaming groups in Michigan, Ohio, Illinios,
Arizona and several other states. The groups became known as "squadrons" and came up with names and identities to help distinguish
themselves. At national gaming conventions, members of the various groups would play against each other and form rivalries.
Based in Indianapolis, the Indy Squadron is one such group.
How many groups currently play the game?
The number fluctuates as players discover the game or move on to other interests. Wisconsin was once the geographic center
of the game. It remains popular there and numerous national events are held in Milwaukee, but none of the local Wisconsin
groups are currently holding regular gaming days. For information on other gaming groups, see the Links page or ask about
it on the Indy Squadron forum (see top menu bar for both links). The Indy Squadron is now the most established and consistent
Dawn Patrol squadron in America, although active players exist in almost every major midwestern city and would enjoy hearing
from you to form a gaming group.
Is there a national organization under which the local groups operate?
Yes. The Fight in the Skies Society is the organization devoted to promoting the game. Game creator Mike Carr
remains its head, with numerous volunteers acting as treasurer, editors, etc. Its an all-volunteer organization with 70-100
members.
Does the Society have a web page or a publication?
Yes. See the Links page on this site (top menu bar) for the Fits Society's official web page. The society's quarterly
publication, Aerodrome, is a physical paper newsletter that is sent to all members. Membership is only $12 and available
through the society's home page.
Does the society hold any special events?
Yes. Annual or bi-annual events include the Society Spring Mini-Con, the Masters Tournament, the Team Tournament, the
Society Open and the Gen Con Open. More information on these events should be found on the society's official web page.
How frequently does the Indy Squadron game?
About once a month, in addition to attending one or two national gaming conventions throughout the year. A calendar
of local events is available on the Forum (see top menu bar).
What is the Indy Squadron Dispatch?
The Indy Squadron Dispatch, or ISD, is the web based periodical publication that you are reading right now. New
issues are published every few weeks on the main "Current Issue" page. This site also holds archives of old issues and nearly
200 pages of information about the Indy Squadron.
Does the Indy Squadron hold any local special events?
Yes, we hold two special events annually. The Armistice Day Fits Tournament is held every November to name the
squadron champion. The Red Baron Fight is held every April to commemorate the final flight of the famous German ace
Manfred von Richthofen. The main menu on this site has links to both of these special events.
