What was also good in EAW was the fact you had a very simple command interface and could issue orders quickly and easily. If you were the squadron commander then you could give the whole squadron orders. If you were just a group leader then you could only command your wingmen (red section, geen section etc) or if you were the wingman... you couldnt command anyone. If you were the defending (sometimes attacking) side also like the RAF in the batle of britain or the Luftwaffe in the 43-45 campaign and things were getting heated up you could bring up the command interface and request help.
Depending on where you were sometimes a friendly squadron would come to help. Nothing better than escorting a group of B24's to a target then you get bounced by upto three squadrons (staffle) of 109'2 or 190's and they cause alot of problems. You ask for friendly fighter assistance if any friendlies are in the area on a sweep etc..... then the radio operator replies with "roger, sending more assistance your way now rabbit leader"
As the fight goes on and thnigs are getting crazy.... out of nowhere a squadron of P51's come screaming out of nowhere into the fight and start mixing it up wth the 109's and 190's and help out all they can. EPIC!! a beautiful sight

They will then stick with you until they get destroyed (unlikely) or they need to break off because of fuel/ammo issues.
Without a doubt the greatest flying game ever.