File:25th AeroSquadron original drawing.jpg

English: 25th Aero Squadron's Executioner or hatchet-man. Based off original drawing by Sgt E. Cross and Sgt Kilbey, 1918.

According to Reed G. Landis (the first operational Squadron commander): "Very shortly after we all got together and secured our aircraft, it was suggested by someone that we adopt an insignia. I offered a cash prize to the members the squadron for such a design which, in the opinion of the officers of the committee appointed to review the suggestions, was most satisfactory. One of the enlisted men won the prize, which was promptly recaptured by one the other men via the Galloping Dominoes. The insignia selected was a modification of a small sketch found in Life Magazine. The original showed a small figure with a large axe, quite similar to that on our ships, preparing to cut off the head of the recumbent figure of the Kaiser. It was intended that each pilot would "cut" a notch in the blade of the axe as he downed one of the enemy."

According to the squadron's first sergeant, R.M. Collette: "The man responsible for the Squadron Goofy Man insignia was Sgt. E. Cross. Sgt Kilbey helped him with it; they were both good painters and printers."