World War II went from 1939-45, and in 1941 the first African American Airmen reported to duty. Before that, African Americans could only enlist as part of the ground troops. 450 African American pilots finished training in Tuskegee Alabama, and were the original airmen sent into battle. They were separated by race, and the two races were not allowed to interact.
With an amazing track record in the war, the Tuskegee Airmen did not lose any of the bombers they were escorting and were all hailed as hero's! But once the war was over they returned to the United States and still treated like second class citizens.
One man did notice their accomplishments and in 1948, President Truman signed an order prohibiting segregation in the military.
Eventually, the Tuskegee Airmen were officially thanked for their amazing efforts in the war. Approximately 450 Tuskegee Airmen received 850 medals between 1943 and 1945. They also received 95 Distinguished Flying Crosses
Tuskegee Airmen, we thank and salute you!
