Lt. Col. Eldridge Williams (former Tuskegee Airman)
Visits Columbus in Honor of Black History Month


Lt. Col. Eldridge Williams, an original member of the Tuskegee Airmen, visited Columbus on February 18th in honor of black history month. The Tuskegee Airmen was the name of the first group of African-American pilots who flew with distinction during World War II as the 332nd Fighter Group of the U.S. Army Air Corps. The Tuskegee Airmen compiled an impressive combat record, called the "Redtails"because of the red paint on the vertical stabilizers of the unit’s aircraft .Williams told of his experiences in the 1940s and 50s in the all-black combat unit. He spoke about the discrimination that he faced and how with determination and preparation he was able to accomplish great success. He received the Congressional Medal of Honor from President Bush in 2007.

Williams served Miami-Dade County after his retirement from the airforce and helped desegregate the school system. His inspiring presentation to the students stressed the importance of education and preparation to reach ones goals.

Thank you Ms. McCullagh for organizing this visit.