During which war was the environmental work of enlisted men like altitude flights and aerial photography notable?

The notable environmental work of enlisted men, particularly in activities such as altitude flights and aerial photography, can be closely associated with World War I. During this time, the military began to recognize the strategic importance of aerial reconnaissance and its potential for gathering intelligence. Enlisted personnel, who operated these aircraft and engaged in missions like altitude flights, played a crucial role in obtaining visual data that helped shape battlefield strategies.

While other wars, such as World War II and the Vietnam War, also involved significant advancements in aerial photography and environmental assessments, the initial development and implementation of these operations are primarily linked to World War I. The context provided in World War I includes the pioneering use of aircraft for surveillance and mapping of enemy positions, which laid the groundwork for future military operations where aerial photography became a standard practice.