A Tribute to the Tuskegee Airmen and a Double Victory!!

by Joe Kates · Published January 16, 2012

On January 14th the Arizona Wing of the Commemorative Air Force, hosted “A Legacy of Honor, Valor and Pride: A Tribute to the Tuskegee Airman” .

Several hundred people turned out to honor the service and sacrifice of the warriors known as the Tuskegee Airman. On hand were several Tuskegee airmen from the Archer-Ragsdale, Arizona Chapter of the TAI.

A presentation of colors was performed by re-enactors portraying Buffalo Soldiers. Mesa, Arizona Mayor Scott Smith gave opening remarks, followed by a moving memorial prayer by Chaplain Porter, to honor those brave warriors who have gone west.

Mr. Richar Toliver, of the Archer-Ragsdale chapter, spoke about the history and legacy of the Tuskegee program. The success of the Tuskegee airmen opened the doors for future generations of African Americans, who wanted to serve their country. The sacrifices made by the men of the Tuskegee breaking down racial discrimination, helped to inspire both men and women to serve.

This was very evident by the evenings key note speaker and award presenter Major General Marcia Anderson (The highest-ranked woman of color in the U.S. Army). During the award ceremony Mr. Mel Rohden spoke the words of Martin Luther King. The event was very moving and a wonderful way to pay tribute to the legacy of these great men.

After a short meet and greet with the honorees, we took our seats and enjoyed a screening of the movie “Double Victory” Tuskegee Airmen tell their story, a George Lucas documentary companion to the upcoming Red Tails film.

Red Tails Directed and produced by George Lucas, will be in theaters January 20th 2012. http://www.redtails2012.com/

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Honorees:

Fred Archer (1921-1988)

Natahiel Carr, Sr. (1921-2005)

Vernon Haywood (1920-2003)

Lincoln Ragsdale,Sr. (1926-1995)

Luke Weathers (1920-2011)

Bob Ashby

George Campbell

Charles Cooper

Thurston Gaines