The Tuskegee Airmen was the name of a popular African American Air Force Unit who fought during WWII. Before the war, African Americans were still living under segregation as well as being subject to Jim Crowe Laws. Despite African American racism, a series of legislative moves by the congress forced the U.S. army to form an all-black air force combat unit. Army officials were reluctant to enlist black soldiers so they set up conditions to enlist much like what society did for black voting rights. The War Department required the applicants to have a high level of experience of flying and education. Unfortunately for them, there was an abundance of applicants who qualified for these terms. On June 1941, the Tuskegee program formed the 99th Fighter Squadron unit.The 99th was successful during their first mission to attack the island of Pantelleria in the Mediterranean Sea. However, the army generals tried hard to convince to the society that the Tuskegee program was a failure. Colonel Momyer told the media that the unit’s pilots were cowards which were posted in an article in TIME. Despite the false criticisms perceived by the media, the Tuskegee program was given a second chance. Shortly after, the 332 Fighter Group was formed.
By the end of the war, The Tuskegee Airmen shot down 112 Luftwaffe planes and embarked on over 1500 missions. Additionally, the 99th received 150 Distinguished Flying Crosses, 8 Purple Hearts, 14 Bronze Stars and 744 Air Medals. By forming the Tuskegee Airmen, African Americans showed their determination to fight for their country, and their rights.
Good job going into a lot of detail about the progression of the Tuskegee Airmen. It was interesting to read the last paragraph about the medals they received.
ReplyDeleteI thought this was a very concise and informative summary. It is interesting to note the false concept of "separate, but equal" in the military programs at this time period. You're absolutely right in saying the restrictions placed on enlisting black soldiers were similar to the ones that had been placed on black voters.
ReplyDeleteReally great information compacted into this posting. I was not aware that the Tuskegee Airmen were only for African Americans and that they had many requirements in order to be part of the air team. Great job going into detail and explaining it in your own words.
ReplyDeleteGood job on the detail about the topic. I did not know that Tuskegee the was only African-American Air Force unit
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