Olympia Fields Post Office To Be Renamed After Tuskegee Airman

OLYMPIA FIELDS, IL — Congress approved renaming the Olympia Fields post office after decorated Captain Robert L. Martin, a member of the Tuskegee Airmen during World War II.

Martin served as a combat pilot in the 100th Fighter Squadron of the 332nd Fighter Group. On his 64th mission, he was shot down over German-occupied territory and evaded capture for five weeks as he made his way safely across Allied lines. He retired from the U.S. Army in 1945.

After the war, Martin moved to Chicago and worked as an electrical engineer. He married Odette Ewell, and over 68 years years together, the couple had four children. In 2008, he moved to Olympia Fields and died 10 years later on July 26.

According to his obituary in The Washington Post, Martin said he flew "63 and a half” missions as part of the Tuskegee Airmen. He was shot down over German-occupied territory and spent five weeks behind enemy lines.

Martin was awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross, the Air Medal with Six Oak Leaf Cluster and the Purple Heart. In 2007, he was awarded the Congressional Medal of Honor by President George W. Bush at a ceremony honoring the Tuskegee Airmen.

Congresswoman Robin Kelly sponsored the legislation to rename the Olympia Fields post office in his honor. It awaits President Donald Trump's signature.