Introduction

The Tuskegee Airmen were a group of American fighter and bomber pilots that fought in World War II. These men were extraordinary not only because they were deployed overseas to fight in North Africa and parts of Italy in a very dangerous war, but also because they were the first all African American squadron of airmen in history. Before that time, no African American had been allowed to be a pilot in the military. Through great adversity, these men proved to America that heroes are worthy of great respect, no matter their skin color.

Discrimination

The group of 922 men were taught to fly and fight at the Tuskegee Institute in Tuskegee, Alabama. These men were still subject to Jim Crow Laws and the military was still mostly segregated, meaning that black and white soldiers could not fight together for the same cause. Even while serving their country, people of color were treated with discrimination. Eleanor Roosevelt, the First Lady of the United States during World War II, was a great supporter of the Tuskegee Airmen. She visited the airfield in Alabama to inspect the aircraft, watch training demonstrations, and even take a short flight with a few of the pilots. She was a believer in equal rights for all, and worked hard to take a stance on civil rights in support of African Americans that worked in the armed forces.

Were they Invincible?

A myth that circulated throughout the news during World War II was that there had never been a loss of a Tuskegee Airman while fighting overseas. However, years later, it was discovered that at least 25 bombers were lost in battle. Though this was sad news to discover, it answered many questions for families that wondered what had happened to their loved ones when the men did not return home from the war.

Legacy

Once the war ended, the impressive aviators had collected more than 150 Distinguished Flying Crosses, a military award given to those that show exceptional bravery during flight on a combat mission. Many other Tuskegee Airmen spent the rest of their lives working to end segregation in the United States Armed Forces, and eventually succeeded.

Discussion Questions

1. Why were the Tuskegee Airmen so important in American history?
2. What challenges did they face while serving in the military?
3. How did Eleanor Roosevelt help support the Tuskegee Airmen?
4. What did the Tuskegee Airmen do after the war to help others?

Glossary

• Fighter and bomber pilots: Pilots who fly airplanes in battles and missions during war.
• Segregated: Kept apart by race; Black and white people were not allowed to mix.
• Discrimination: Unfair treatment of people based on race, gender, or other differences.
• Distinguished Flying Cross: A special medal given to military pilots for acts of bravery.
• Eleanor Roosevelt: The wife of President Franklin D. Roosevelt and a supporter of equal rights.