American Glory is the exultation of American diversity and American exceptionalism. E Pluribus Unum, our national motto, “Out of Many One” speaks to the centrality of diversity in the American ethos. African Americans have made American history more complete by insertions of exceptional African American contributions performed during periods of national peril and national development . The most exceptional event in the annals of American history was the inauguration of President Barack H. Obama as the 44th President of the United States of America. It represented the triumph of the American spirit over the realities of America’s birth in human slavery. This second inauguration confirms that true equality and justice do inspire what is most revered in American life today.
Critical pressure from the African American press, the church, the NAACP, the Urban League et. al., and Mrs. Roosevelt persuaded President Franklin Delano Roosevelt, the War Department and the US Army Air Corps to activate, train and deploy an African American Air Combat group, with support units against the Axis forces during World War II. Their performance contributed to victory in WW II and prompted the US Air Force to integrate itself and so increase efficiency and effectiveness . The air force success led to the integration of all the US Armed Forces and eventually to the integration of America.
The most fitting tribute to the Tuskegee Airmen is inscribed on the statue erected in their honor at the US Air Force Academy:
They rose from adversity through competence, courage and commitment and capacity to serve America on silver wings and set a standard few will transcend.
Dr. Ivan Ware - Board Member, East Coast Chapter Tuskegee Airmen, Inc. and Designated Original Tuskegee Airman (DOTA)
