DeGette Sponsors Plan to Award Tuskegee Airmen Congressional Gold Medal

Press Release

DeGette Sponsors Plan to Award Tuskegee Airmen Congressional Gold Medal

US Representative Diana DeGette (D-CO) proudly sponsored a measure awarding the highly-decorated Tuskegee Airmen Congressional Gold Medals for their service during World War II and leadership in the fight for civil rights in the United States.

"A Congressional Gold Medal is an overdue tribute for the Tuskegee Airmen," said Rep. DeGette, "These brave men had to fight against bigotry in their own nation and military just to get the right to fight for their country. Once they did get the opportunity to fight, they were among the best pilots in the war, earning numerous citations as well as the distinction of being the only fighter wing never to lose a bomber to enemy fire. Their extraordinary record helped lead to the desegregation of the military in 1948. We owe them a debt of gratitude and the honor of a Congressional Gold Medal."

In 1941, following pressure from African American leaders, the United States Army Air Force reluctantly formed the first unit of black fighter pilots in Tuskegee, Alabama. The program graduated 992 black pilots, who became known as the Tuskegee Airmen. More than 400 served in combat over North Africa, Sicily, and Europe, flying 15,553 sorties and 1,578 missions. The unit received two Presidential Unit Citations, 744 Air Medals, 150 Distinguished Flying Crosses, 14 Bronze Stars and several Silver Stars.

The Congressional Gold Medal is the highest honor the US Congress can bestow on individuals or organizations for outstanding acts of service, bravery, and sacrifice to our nation. A number of Tuskegee Airmen reside in the Denver metro area and continue to serve as leaders of our community in government, politics and business.

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