Chesco Lawmaker Champions Bill Honoring Tuskegee Airmen

HARRISBURG —State Rep. Dan Williams, a Chester County Democrat, on Monday called on Congress to designate March 29 as Tuskegee Airman Commemoration Day in Pennsylvania.

Williams, a co-sponsor of H.B. 2586, said Tuskegee Airmen were the first group of Black military fighter pilots and were among the most accomplished aviators in World War II, noting nearly 100 came from western Pennsylvania.

“As we march toward Juneteenth, it’s encouraging to see my colleagues on both sides of the aisle agree on this common sense legislation,” said Williams.

“Their contribution to the war effort has not and will not be forgotten, especially in our commonwealth. It’s been an honor to help get this bill across the finish line.”

Williams said upwards of 900 pilots who graduated from Tuskegee Airfield flew 1,578 missions throughout the war and earned more than 850 medals.

The airmen of the 332nd Fighter Group and 477th Bombardment Group fought in North Africa, Italy and Germany.

The 332nd’s distinguished combat record and red markings painted on the tails of their P-47 Mustangs earned them the well-known title of “Red-Tail Angels.”

President George W. Bush presented the Tuskegee Airmen with the Congressional Gold Medal on March 29, 2007.