In recognition of the 70th anniversary of the creation of the nation's first all African-American pursuit squadron, Atlanta City Councilman Michael Julian Bond presented proclamations honoring the surviving Tuskegee Airmen of the metro Atlanta area on Monday, Dec. 5 at Atlanta City Hall.
The Tuskegee Airmen overcame segregation and discrimination to become one of the most highly respected fighter groups of World War II. They flew 15,533 combat sorties and recorded 112 total aerial kills, helping to pave the way for the full integration of the U.S. military on July 26, 1948.
Twelve Tuskegee Airmen were on hand during Monday's reception and proclamation ceremony.
"It is a privilege to honor such esteemed individuals," said Bond.
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