Two members of the Tuskegee Airmen, the first African-American military aviators in the American armed forces, will participate in a panel discussion on Feb. 28 at 6:30 p.m. in the Chapel. The discussion is open free to the public.
Hillard W. Pouncy and R. Val Archer were two of nearly 1,000 pilots trained in Tuskegee, Ala., from 1941 to 1946. They will discuss the triumphs and challenges of serving in the U.S. Army Air Corps despite the segregation of the military and the country’s deep racial divide at that time.
“These men are trailblazers who overcame tremendous odds to serve their nation, paving the way for the desegregation of the American military,” said Megan Segoshi, senior coordinator of Multicultural Services and Programs. “We believe their triumphant story will inspire students and will be a fitting conclusion to our Black History Month observance.”
Pouncy and Archer also will be honored with the presentation of official Air Force commemorative coins by members of UGA’s Air Force ROTC Detachment 160.
Tuskegee Airmen Inc. is a nonprofit organization dedicated to keeping alive the history, achievements and importance of the original Tuskegee Airmen. The organization exists primarily to motivate and inspire young Americans to become active participants in the nation’s democratic process. Its programs and services support young men and women pursuing excellence, paying special attention to those interested in careers in aviation, technology and aerospace.
