Nine hundred thirty-two African-American pilots graduated from Tuskegee, Alabama, from 1942 to 1946. Of them, 355 airmen, considered an elite group of fighter pilots, became the 332nd Fighter Group of the 15th Air Force, the first African-American combat pilots. They earned distinction for flying escort for heavy bombers over Europe in World War II. Of the 355 Red Tail pilots, 80 were killed and 32 were prisoners of war. Their bravery, passion, sacrifice, remarkable achievement, and example inspired future generations to reach to the skies and realize that all things are possible.
