Charles McGee, a Tuskegee Airman ho flew a record 409 fighter combat missions over three wars and later helped to bring attention to the black pilots who had battled racism at home to fight for freedom abroad,, died Sunday. He was 102.
During World War II, McGee left the University of Illinois to join an experimental program for black soldiers seeking to train as pilots, after the Army Air Corps was forced to admit African Americans. In October 1942 he was sent to the Tuskegee Army Air Field in Alabama for flight training. McGee graduated in June of 1943 and joined the all black 332nd fighter group, known as the “Red Tails.” He flew 136 missions as the group accompanied bombers over Europe. McGee remained in the Army Air Corps, later the U. S. Air Force and served for 30 years flying missions during the Korean War and the Vietnam War.
When asked why the Tuskegee Airmen were so successful, he said it was because of their courage and perseverance, saying they dreamed of being pilots as boys, but were told it was not possible. Through faith and determination, they overcame enormous obstacles. This is a lesson that all young people today need to hear.
