page_title: No. 253 Squadron RAF
section_title: WW1
hierarchical_section_title: No. 253 Squadron RAF / History / WW1
caption_attribution_description: Airco DH.6
context_page_description: No. 253 Squadron was a flying squadron of the Royal Air Force between 1918 and 1947. Originally formed in 1918, it served in WW1 flying coastal reconnaissance and anti-submarine patrols. Later in WW2 it took part in the Battle of France, the Battle of Britain, and then fought in the Mediterranean Theatre of Operations in Algeria. The squadron was disbanded on 16 May 1947, and briefly revived as a night-fighter squadron from 18 April 1955 to 2 September 1957.
context_section_description: 253 Squadron was originally formed at Bembridge, on the Isle of Wight, on 7 June 1918, remaining there until disbanded on 31 May 1919.
  During the squadrons stay at Bembridge it parented No. 412 (Seaplane) Flight RAF and No. 413 (Seaplane) Flight RAF, as well as No. 511 (Special Duty) Flight RAF, No. 512 (Special Duty) Flight RAF and No. 513 (Special Duty) Flight RAF for coastal reconnaissance and anti-submarine patrols, flying Short Type 184 and Airco DH.6 aircraft. DH.6s of 511 and 512 Flights flew their  aircraft from the aerodrome at Foreland.
caption: An Airco DH.6 similar to one flown by 253 Squadron
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