Reemashay Nelson: Howard University Graduate Becomes First Black, Female Air Force Thunderbird

*The newest member to the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds is a Howard University graduate and the first Black, female officer, Captain Reemashay Nelson.

“I know a small percentage of African-American officers, specifically female officers in the Air Force. So to be in a position that is visible, to show little girls that this is attainable, to let them know they can do anything they put their mind to, is an absolute honor,” Nelson said.

She has spent eight years in the Air Force, serving mostly overseas, but it’s her Harvard education that she finds most rewarding, per NBC Washington. 

“To be around people who look like me and instill self-confidence in who I am, and walk into the world knowing where I come from and where my people come from, and where we can go, is invaluable,” Nelson said.

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Yesterday’s #AmericaStrong flyover was dedicated to the brave men and women on the front lines battling #COVID.

We can’t thank them enough for their hard work and dedication during this difficult time in our nation.#InThisTogether pic.twitter.com/Bt9xFFnjBa

— Thunderbirds (@AFThunderbirds) May 15, 2020

The Air Force Thunderbirds squadron shows have temporarily been curbed because of the coronavirus, but they have conducted flyovers across D.C., Baltimore and Atlanta in honor of the folks on the frontline battling the pandemic.

Nelson credits her family for supporting her journey toward attaining a highly selective position within the Air Force.

“Even when people tell you no to your face, but your work shows where you should be, I think if you continue to work hard and go after what it is you want, you will achieve your dream,” Nelson said.

“We have one life to live and so I want to do that by giving back and by showing people what is possible,” Nelson said. “Just to achieve as much as I can when I have the opportunity to do so.”

Nelson wants her time in the skies to serve “hope” amid the coronavirus crisis.

“We can get through this,” she added. 

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