*The Tuskegee Airmen Scholarship Foundation (TASF) celebrates the 75th Anniversary of the legendary Tuskegee Airmen on Friday, December 2, 2016 at 5 p.m. at Bob Hope Patriotic Hall, 1816 S. Figueroa Street, Los Angeles, CA 90015.
Parking is complimentary. TASF, a nonprofit, will host the event with original Tuskegee Airmen, Olympians, media, elected officials, educators, students and community leaders in attendance.
The VIP reception will mark the 75th anniversary, a milestone, of the Tuskegee Airmen Experience when against all odds they defied negative stereotypes that others placed on them and proved that dedication and commitment are the true characteristics of success and not race.
The Tuskegee Airmen became one of the most decorated military groups in the history of the Army Air Corps. “The Tuskegee Airmen are not just black heroes, they are American heroes, American patriots,” said Edward Grice, Executive Director for TASF.
“They fought gallantly for the ideals of freedom and demonstrated outstanding courage and valor in the face of unbeatable odds.” Several of the original Tuskegee Airmen are still living.
The Experience began with the first aviation class of 13 cadets on July 19, 1941.
From 1941 to 1946, approximately 1,000 pilots graduated. The Airmen served the Army Air Corps earning them 150 Distinguished Flying Crosses, 744 Air Medals, 31 Purple Hearts, 14 Bronze Stars and a well-deserved place in U.S. history.
“They stand as living testaments to the triumph of good over evil and represent the genuine qualities necessary for true greatness,” said Grice.
For tickets and sponsorship information to assist with preserving the history at this honorable event, please contact the TASF event manager at 213-276-7827 or [email protected].
About Tuskegee Airmen Franklin D. Roosevelt ordered the Army Air Corps to form an all African American flying unit in 1940. The Air Corps opened a new training base in central Alabama in order to train the African American pilots needed for the new squadron.
As a result the 99th Pursuit Squadron was created. In spring of 1941 the first African American enlisted men began training to become mechanics and the first thirteen candidates entered pilot training.
On March 7, 1942 the first contingent of young black pilots were inducted into the US Army Air Corps on Tuskegee’s airstrip. Eight days later the 100th Fighter Squadron was established as a part of the 33rd Fighter Group.
About TASF Founded in 1978 by original Tuskegee Airmen, the TASF has awarded 1,300 scholarships totaling over $1.7 million. Our mission is to provide access to career opportunities in STEM and beyond. For more information, visit the TASF at www.taisf.org.
source:
Marie Lemelle
[email protected]
