The Tuskegee Airmen were America’s first black military pilots. They overcame huge obstacles – including a segregated military establishment - in order to be allowed to fly with the U.S. Army Air Corps and fight for America’s freedom during World War II. The pilots were supported by more than 13,000 highly trained crewmembers who are also known as “Tuskegee Airmen.” They served first in North Africa and then in Italy where they earned a reputation as skilled fighter pilots who flew red-tailed P-51 Mustangs. Bomber pilots asked to be escorted by the “red tail angels” because the Airmen always focused on protecting their bombers during a mission; they did not seek out the enemy in order to bring glory on themselves.
During World War II, Col. Brown’s red-tailed Mustang was shot down, and he spent months in a German POW camp. Col. McGee holds the USAF record for the most combat flights flown – 409. Their experiences and insight promise to make the webinars lively and interesting. Squadron member Stan Ross will moderate both events.
CAF Red Tail Squadron leader Bradford Lang said, “We are so pleased to be able to present these free webinars featuring Col. McGee and Col. Brown. By using the Internet as a platform, people who may never have had the opportunity to see or meet a Tuskegee Airman can hear two of these modest heroes discuss their actual wartime experiences as pioneering pilots compared to what the “Red Tails” movie portrays. We particularly encourage young people to take the time to register and log in on their preferred dates. Charles and Harold are gifted speakers who are as entertaining as they are educational, and we anticipate a great time will be had by all!”
To register for the February 1st webinar, which will run from 8-8:45 p.m. (Eastern time), go to http://tinyurl.com/RedTailWebinar and complete the registration form. To register for the February 4th event that runs from 3-3:45 p.m., go to http://tinyurl.com/RedTailWebinar2. Both events will have the same format and are free of charge.
About the CAF:
Collecting, restoring and flying vintage historical aircraft for more than half a century, the Commemorative Air Force (CAF) ranks as one of the largest private air forces in the world. The CAF is dedicated to Honoring American Military Aviation through flight, exhibition and remembrance. A non-profit educational association, the CAF has more than 9,000 members and a fleet of 156 airplanes distributed throughout the country to 72 units located in 27 states for care and operation. For more information, visit www.commemorativeairforce.org or call (432) 563-1000.
For more information about the CAF Red Tail Squadron, visit www.redtail.org.
No comments:
Post a Comment