“I believe that unarmed truth and unconditional love will have the final word in reality.”
~ Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. in 1964
during his acceptance of the Nobel Peace Prize
It has been over 75 years since the Tuskegee Airmen fought for the opportunity to leave their mark on history. The ability of these fine Americans to triumph over adversity played a large role in the desegregation of the Armed Forces in 1948, a signpost for the forthcoming civil rights movement. Less than 20 years later, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. would forever alter the way modern society viewed the landscape of race, poverty and social justice.
The fabric of history is woven of many threads that together create the image of who we are. Pioneers, rebels, leaders and those with a passionate vision for change create a form for the world to cling to, altering the future for the better. At the CAF Red Tail Squadron, we honor the history and legacy of the Tuskegee Airmen each day. The change they engendered because of their will to serve their country helped make the world a better place for all and will inspire people of all ages and creeds for generations to come.
Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial in Washington, D.C.
Today we remember the man who challenged deeply held paradigms, and did so through his extraordinary non-violent leadership, faith and determination. Dr. King’s life is a testament to the power within each of us to change the world. This is not merely a day off of school or away from the office; it’s a chance to reflect upon what it means to be a citizen of this country, this planet, and appreciate our freedom to continue to make it a better place.
Like the Tuskegee Airmen, everyone deserves a chance to pursue their dreams, and be valued for the content of their character rather than the color of their skin. As we have learned from Dr. King, never stop dreaming.
The CAF Red Tail Squadron is a volunteer-driven organization dedicated to educating audiences across the country about the history and legacy of the Tuskegee Airmen, America’s first black military pilots and their support personnel. Learn more at www.redtail.org.
