What year did the first American volunteer group, known as the Flying Tigers, engage in action against Japanese invaders?

The Flying Tigers, officially known as the 1st American Volunteer Group (AVG), began their combat operations in December 1941. They were recruited to assist the Chinese Air Force in fighting against the Japanese invasion during World War II. Their first significant engagement took place shortly after the attack on Pearl Harbor, as the United States was drawn into the war, and China was in dire need of support against Japanese forces. This timing highlights the strategic importance of their involvement at that particular moment in history.