[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 154 (2008), Part 2]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page 2908]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]




                A STATEMENT HONORING THE TUSKEGEE AIRMEN

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                            HON. DAVID SCOTT

                               of georgia

                    in the house of representatives

                      Thursday, February 28, 2008

  Mr. SCOTT of Georgia. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor one of 
America's most courageous groups of men who fought during World War II, 
the Tuskegee Airmen. These brave African American men refused to let 
discrimination topple their dreams as they fought to defend America 
during World War II and protect our freedom. They are nationally known 
for being the first group of black military airmen at a time when 
people believed all blacks lacked intelligence, skill, courage, and 
patriotism.
  It was not until 1941 when the Tuskegee Airmen were given an 
opportunity to learn about aviation at Tuskegee Institute in Tuskegee, 
Alabama, founded by Booker T. Washington. There is no greater story of 
freedom and American democracy than that of the Tuskegee Airmen, who 
with bravery and courage fought for the freedom of this country and the 
world, while at home African Americans were second-class citizens.
  Coming out of the Tuskegee Institute as some of the best and 
brightest of their programs, they went on to fight against all odds. 
These men were a vital part of the battles against the Luftwaffe in 
Austria, Hungary, Poland, and Germany. They flew more than 15,000 
sorties, escorted bombers in raids against enemies over Europe and 
North Africa, and destroyed enemy targets and supply lines in Germany. 
Their efforts and successes in the Air Force directly influenced 
President Truman's decision to desegregate the U.S. military. Due to 
their patriotism and valor in World War II, on March 27, 2007, they 
received one of the highest honors in the United States, the 
Congressional Gold Medal.
  So when anyone talks about the Tuskegee Airmen, it is more than just 
their flying. It is their extraordinary stand for courage in the face 
of difficulty. This month I salute the Tuskegee Airmen.

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