While learning to fly in 1911, Tarascon was seriously injured in a crash, losing his right leg. He volunteered for the French Air Service in August of 1914. He was accepted and received a Pilot's Brevet in December. During World War I, he became known as "l'as la jambe de bois" (the ace with the wooden leg). During World War II, Tarascon was a Colonel in the French Resistance.

Médaille Militaire
"Adjudant pilot of Escadrille N62. Excellent pilot, always prepared to work. Although one leg had been amputated, he entered aviation and has carried out numerous reconnaissances over long distances and has had 15 aerial combats. On 15 July 1916, he shot down an Aviatik de chasse, which fell in flames in enemy territory." Médaille Militaire citation, August 4, 1916

Chevalier de la Légion d'Honneur
"Adjudant pilot of Escadrille N62. Remarkable pilot by his devotion, skill, coolness and initiative. He has distinguished himself for over a year during the course of numerous reconnaissances, protections and pursuits. On August 9, 1916, his plane was hit over 100 times by enemy bullets. Since the first of July, he has had 35 combats, downing five enemy planes and has forced two others to land in a damaged condition." Chevalier de la Légion d'Honneur citation, November 15, 1916