CHICAGO (WLS) — The Tuskegee Airmen were remembered and celebrated Tuesday in Chicago.
The airmen played a pivotal role in World War II as America’s first Black air squadron.
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And their contributions are now helping to pave the way for future aviators.
During a recent session, the Chicago Chapter of the Tuskegee Airmen, the successors to the famous aviation trailblazers, shared insights about their journey into the aviation field, offering a valuable history lesson to aspiring airline mechanics.
Victor Croswell helped organize Tuskegee Airmen Day at the Aviation Institute of Maintenance.
“Without those guys, I would not be here,” Croswell said.
It is crucial to recognize and commemorate the legacy of America’s pioneering Black military aviators from World War II, who valiantly served their country amid the challenges of racial discrimination.
“We need to know our history, number one, and these guys were brilliant, what they did, and protecting this country,” Croswell said.
It’s a source of inspiration to those seeking careers in the aviation industry.
“It’s our story; it’s history. It’s how we learn. It’s how we can grow from it,” student Corey Mcelwee said.
Reflecting on the significant contributions of these courageous individuals, student Alejandro de la Cruz emphasized the importance of acknowledging and appreciating not only their impact on the nation but also their invaluable role in shaping the aviation industry.
Over the past 30 years, Croswell has personally provided nearly 300 airplane rides to underserved youth. He did so in a plane he’s now donating to the Aviation Institute of Maintenance.
It’s Croswell’s way of giving back, and honoring those who paved the way for him.
“A lot of them, when they passed the baton to a person like myself, I’ll never forget their story,” Croswell said.
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