“Intelligence plus character – that is the goal of true education.”
~ Martin Luther King Jr.
Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. gave a powerful voice to the modern American Civil Rights Movement. His work challenged – and changed – deeply held paradigms, and did so through his extraordinary non-violent leadership, faith and determination. Today, as we remember not only his birth but also his great legacy, his wisdom continues to resonate in the hearts of those willing to heed the call, and for that we are truly grateful.
Today, the CAF Red Tail Squadron pauses to honor the spirit and life of Dr. King. We would like to think that – today and everyday – in our own way we do so through our ongoing educational outreach initiatives, resting on the objective to carry the lessons and legacy of the Tuskegee Airmen into every classroom in America. Because they were our country’s first black military pilots and their support personnel, fighting for our freedoms in World War II while lacking basic freedoms themselves, these heroes were pioneers that paved the way for even greater change in the decades that would come.
Our innovative educational materials for teachers and youth leaders are designed to bring the lessons of the Tuskegee Airmen alive in the classroom. The Airmen’s strength of character, courage and ability to triumph over adversity serves as a means to inspire these students to RISE ABOVE obstacles in their own lives – no matter how large or small – and achieve their goals. With each teacher that implements our materials into their lesson plans, a student has the chance to dream a little bigger and perhaps blossom into a leader for change.
With Black History Month quickly approaching, the time is now to secure your RISE ABOVE Resource Kit and Aim High – The Aircraft of the Tuskegee Airmen, our free iBook. Share these resources with the students and teachers in your life and join us as we continue to do our part to ensure that the inspirational legacy of these great Americans is never forgotten.
On this Martin Luther King, Jr. Day, we remember the vision of freedom Dr. King had for this country. That vision is as relevant and necessary today as it was all those decades ago. The issues might evolve over the years, but the basic tenants are still the same; freedom, liberty and justice for all.
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.
