The Significant Flights

Tuskegee Airmen

The Tuskegee Airmen was a highly decorated WWII squadron that consisted of all black men. At the time, this was done for racial segregation due to Jim Crow laws. African Americans suffered discrimination and poor treatment along with segregation because of these Jim Crow laws. The military was yet another place victim to racial segregation. Among the brave men, fought the all African American squadron named the Tuskegee Airmen.

The Tuskegee Airmen became the first African American military airmen. The men hailed from all around the country including Los Angeles, New York, Detroit, and Philadelphia. The men were trained as single engine and double engine pilots at the Tuskegee Army Air Field, hence the name of the squadron. From 1941 to 1946, 996 pilots received their wings there and 450 went on to serve in the 99th Pursuit Squadron or the 332nd Fighter Group.

The first victory against an enemy aircraft was in Sicily. This feat has led to other crucial aerial skirmishes between the Germans and the Tuskegee Airmen where the Airmen, yet again, defeated their foes in the air. This historic victory led to many accomplishments. For one, Mussolini surrendered soon after their victory. They also won two distinguished unit citations, which is the military’s highest commendation, for their outstanding aerial combat against the Germans.

It is said that the Tuskegee airmen had to fight two wars – one against the military forces and one against inescapable racism. Even after their remarkable war records, the Tuskegee airmen did not receive much recognition after returning from war. They continued to face bigotry and racism abroad. However, the airmen were well valued in the Air Force where many units needed the black personnel but could not work with them due to segregation policies. This held until 1948, when President Harry Truman enacted Executive Order Number 9981, which directed equality of treatment and opportunity in all of the United States Armed Forces. Integration of the airmen began soon after that.

The Tuskegee Airmen were role models for future African Americans who, facing racism, would join the military. This plays a huge role because despite segregation, oppression, and racism, Africans will continue to show their respect for their country. This signifies the coming end to segregation in the future.

-Felix, Kevin