Which president transferred aviation authority from the Signal Corps to the US Army Air Service?

The transfer of aviation authority from the Signal Corps to the U.S. Army Air Service was a significant event in the evolution of military aviation in the United States. Under President Woodrow Wilson, this transition occurred in 1918 during World War I, reflecting the increasing importance of air power in military strategy and operations.

This change underscored the recognition of aviation as a critical component of the armed forces, separate from the traditional communications role assigned to the Signal Corps. The formation of the Army Air Service allowed for the development of more specialized training, tactics, and organization within the military for aerial operations. This shift also paved the way for future advancements in military aviation and the eventual independence of air forces as separate branches of the military.

Other presidents mentioned, such as Theodore Roosevelt, Franklin D. Roosevelt, and Harry S. Truman, did not play a role in this specific transition of authority but were involved in various other aviation and military developments during their presidencies. Therefore, the answer correctly attributes this pivotal change to Woodrow Wilson, reflecting his administration's recognition of the growing significance of air power in modern warfare.