A Legacy of Honor, Valor and Pride: A Tribute to the Tuskegee Airmen
January, 2012 marks two important events: the Martin Luther King Holiday celebration on January 16th and the premiere of Lucasfilm's movie epic "Red Tails" on January 20th.
To commemorate their triumphs and to mark the premiere of Lucasfilm's "Red Tails" the CAF Arizona Wing Aviation Museum will host a special event to honor those Tuskegee Airmen who call Arizona their home on Saturday afternoon, January 14, 2012, as a part of the 2012 Martin Luther King Holiday celebration.
The Lucasfilm story of the Tuskegee Airmen chronicles the experiences of men of color who rose to their Nation's defense at its greatest time of need -- to combat Fascism in Europe that threatened the very existence of the United States -- notwithstanding the discrimination they confronted here at home. Their acts of heroism and determination, although uniquely and greatly contributing to the Allied success in Europe in the Second World War, were not celebrated nor acknowledged for many years after the war's close. As men of color, they returned home to face challenges that were, in many respects, just as significant and daunting as those they met on the battlefield.
The Tribute event is timed to provide attendees a valuable educational experience centered on the Tuskegee Airmen, as well as a unique preview of the "Red Tails" film. The Tribute will include a memoriam to those Tuskegee Airmen who once called Arizona home and who are now deceased, an historical segment recounting the history of the Tuskegee Airmen, tribute presentations by special guests, climaxed by the presentation of unique recognition figurines to each of the honorees. An Honor Guard will be provided by the Buffalo Soldiers of the Arizona Territory and the Ladies and Gentlemen of the Regiment. After a brief intermission, attendees will view a special presentation of "Double Victory", a gripping documentary of America"s first all black aerial unit - the Tuskegee Airmen - who broke racial barriers and challenged stereotypes by serving their country in World War II.
This unique event will provide a special opportunity to meet Arizona's Tuskegee Airmen, gain valuable insights into their history and legacy and preview a behind-the-scenes educational film backgrounding the forthcoming "Red Tails" movie and the historic events that inspired its production.
The CAF Arizona Wing Aviation Museum is proud to play host to this important event and of its collaboration with the Archer-Ragsdale Arizona Chapter of the Tuskegee Airmen, Inc. and The Buffalo Soldiers of the Arizona Territory and the Ladies and Gentlemen of the Regiment.
Admission to the Tribute event also entitles attendees to tour of the Museum's collection of historic aircraft and memorabilia, including "Sentimental Journey", its fully-restored B-17 Flying Fortress bomber and the "Triumph Over Adversity" Exhibit that honors the Tuskegee Airmen. Tickets can be purchased here through PayPal. A small handling/processing fee of $2.00 applies to all online orders (regardless of qty).
Event flyer for download and distribution is available by clicking here.
Link to the website about the new movie Red Tails can be found by clicking here.
For event questions, please email redtails@azcaf.org
Important Event Details:
- When: January 14th starting when museum doors open at 10:00AM; main event at 2:00PM
- Where: Arizona Wing of the Commemorative Air Force. For directions, click here
- Parking is available at our museum and the fire station just East of the facility. Please see the map by clicking here.
- Who: Adults and kids alike are welcome to participate in honoring these heroes of color that gave so much for their country.
- Cost: $25 per person, which includes general museum admission and attendance at the Tribute ceremony.
- Tickets available at will call in our gift shop beforehand or day of event
