St. Arbucks Chapel – February 19, 2025
In honor of Black History Month, I was inspired by this article about the Tuskegee Airmen.
The Tuskegee Airmen, also known as the Red Tails for their illustrious red jackets and red-tailed aircraft, were the first African American military aviators in the United States. In 2023, centenarian fighter pilot Lt. Col. James Harvey—one of the only Tuskegee Airmen still alive—remained committed to sharing stories of the group’s triumphs for future generations. Before World War II, it was not an option for a Black man to become a fighter pilot. So, when the opportunity arose to be one of the Red Tails, Harvey jumped at it. The pilots faced racial prejudice, but despite the tough training, Harvey told ABC 10 News San Diego, “We knew what we were capable of.” The Red Tails brought down more than 100 enemy aircraft in WWII, and their success contributed to the military being desegregated. They even won the first Top Gun competition in their category in 1949. This victory was finally recognized 73 years later in 2022. Present at the ceremony was 100-year-old Harvey, who remains determined to keep fighting for their legacy, so that the Red Tails are never forgotten.
Thanks be to God! He gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ. (1 Corinthians 15:57)
Lord, bless the Red Tails for their service to our country.