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221026-F-YO447-9492.JPG Photo By: Tech Sgt. Areca T. Wilson

JOINT BASE SAN ANTONIO, Texas - After facing many racial barriers, Gen. Benjamin O. Davis Jr., was afforded the opportunity to become a pilot and was chosen to command the 99th Fighter Squadron at Tuskegee Army Air Base in 1942. He advocated for the Tuskegee Airmen when Army Air Forces senior leaders tried to get the 99th Fighter Squadron removed from combat in 1943, noting that its combat skills improved with experience. He gained a delay, and the squadron’s subsequent performance ended any more suggestions to remove them from combat. Davis would go on to serve a distinguished career. His military decorations include the Silver Star, Legion of Merit with two oak leaf clusters, Distinguished Flying Cross, Air Medal with four oak leaf clusters, and the Philippine Legion of Honor. (U.S. Air Force graphic by Tech. Sgt. Wilson/Released)


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