Reflecting American society and law at the time, the U.S. military remained racially segregated during World War II. Most African American soldiers and sailors were restricted to labor battalions or other support positions. One experiment in the U.S. Army Air Forces, however, demonstrated conclusively that African Americans -- if given equal opportunities and training -- could fly in, command and support combat units as well as anyone. These men, known as the "Tuskegee Airmen," served with distinction in combat, and they contributed to the eventual integration of the U.S. armed services, with the U.S. Air Force leading the way.
Click on the following links to learn more about the Tuskegee Airmen.
Political Pressure
Training Begins
Charles Alfred "Chief" Anderson
Davis Leads the 99th into Combat
Escort Excellence
Legacy of Equality
Edward C. Gleed Flying Jacket
Lt. Lloyd "Scotty" Hathcock
Two-war Flight Suit
Tuskegee Airmen Congressional Gold Medal
Click here to return to the World War II Gallery.