Honor Thy Father: A Tuskegee Airman

Here are more comments and stories shared with me in the past months. Thank you all for your wonderful and inspiring contributions! Click on different sections to view subsequent Tuskegee Archives.

Dear Ms.Douglass: Please excuse me mailing you directly, but I just wanted to offer sincere thanks for your inspirational and informative page about your father and the Tuskegee airmen. There is a certain serendipity at work here; only the other evening there was a splendid film aired on the television concerning the 99th (featuring Laurence Fishburn and Cuba Gooding.Jr.) So, today I was browsing the net WWII section for research purposes -- in the hope of finding an equivalent homepage about black flyers of the British Commonwealth -- and found your page. My interest in the last World War stems from my father's own service - an infantryman with the British 8th Army (Desert Rats) who fought at El Alamein and elsewhere - and extends to all the theatres and services; and further, to the Great War. Though I was not born until 1963 - a late child - I feel always the ghosts of that shining generation - bright, wonderful young men and women - at my shoulder and a sense of duty and responsibility not to let succeeding generations forget the honour and sacrifice of those who fought to protect our freedoms. To my mind, the Tuskegee airmen, perhaps more than any other unit, are the living embodiment of everything that was truly being fought for -- the right to say that all people are created equal; an end to oppression and tyranny. They stand as an example to us all. With gratitude I honour the memory of your father and his fellow aviators, many of whom paid the price of our tomorrow with their today. Lest we forget. I remain yours sincerely, Russell Lewis - Surrey, England.
(Letter - Central Alternative Highschool, Dubuque, Iowa, October, 18, 2001) Dear Mr. Gomer: I'd like to thank you for the many things that you've done for my class and me; both directly and indirectly. Your deeds throughout your life have affected all of us in an incredible way. From the heroic changes that all veterans face in war, to the unique obstacles you and the Tuskegee Airmen had to overcome to not only earn your wings, but the respect of a doubtful nation, you've taught us a lot. We've learned many things such as dedication, honor, and perserverance. With your attendance at the seminar and the weekend events these lessons were amplified, as we were able to see in person these heroes who we had read so much about. I especially enjoyed your vivid storytelling at Washington Jr. High. Being one of the emcees for the evening seminar I was a little nervous, (even though not as many people showed up as we had hoped) but you made us laugh and enjoy our night even more. That really made your personal story seem more real and made the hardships you overcame easier to empathize with and understand. Along with Mr. Martin and Col. McGee, you made everyone feel like our work was worthwhile. This has encouraged us to keep alive the mentality of perserverance and the determination to settle for nothing bur success, for the rest of our high school careers and adult lives. So thanks again for helping us accomplish as the 1998 students put it, "more than we ever though possible." Sincerely, Liz Blair
Forgive my uninvited mail but I feel compelled to write having just read 'A tribute to my father'. My name is Richard Munro, I am 27 years old, white, living in London, England and have just watched the film of 'The Tuskegee Airmen'. I was so impressed that I find myself researching more of these wonderful men on the Internet - something I have never before done after hearing a story - and the first site I found was this story. Your father and the other heros of the Redtails fought through disgraceful and unforgivable racial hatred and discrimination. Unforgivable, yet they forgave and fought for what they believed in, and won. Their personal victories both in battle and against the establishment is inspirational and I find it dreadful that they are only now beginning to get the recognition and thanks that they have always deserve, and the respect that any human being should always have been entitled to, yet they have had to fight for. They have my utmost respect and gratitude as member of our free world. I know that there are still racial difficulties, and I understand that they are worse in the States than in England which becomes more cosmopolitan every year. I too long for a world where colour or creed matters to no-one, but while we live in one where it still does, know that here is one more person for whom these men were and are heroes, and knows how proud they must have been to be so and to be black, for I feel that pride for them too. Thank you for sharing the tale. Richard Munro
Dear Mrs. Douglas, I stumbled across your website tribute to your father and I thouroughly enjoyed it. I am a African-American female 1st lt in the Air Force. I am a aerovac nurse. I earned my wings last summer, in 1997. I am not a pilot, but our crews are small, and we have a very close relationship with the pilots. Each and every time I fly, I think of the Tuskegee Airmen. I am very proud of them. Most of the African-Americans in my unit proudly display decals of the Tuskegee Airmen men on our flight bags, trip kits etc, to serve as a reminder to all, and our crew, and those we meet of these heroes. I would like to know where to get more decals, etc. to display. I have the collector's edition 12 in. GI Joes too. The Air Force has made great strives in improving race relations, but I think that I can speak for other African-American officers when I say racism is not irradicated. I am sorry to say that I missed the surviving airmen when they came to March AFB, Ca. I would love to meet at least one in my lifetime! I thank you again for your site, and I proudly salute your father; " Maj. Joe Gomer" Ingrid M. Abrams (1st Lt, USAF,NC.)
Dear Phyllis, Just a little note, to let you know how much my fiance and I enjoyed your page. I felt like crying and applauding. Thank you for telling us about your father and his life. Valerie McKiernan
Just found your web page and your wonderful tribute to your father. My Dad was also in the 99th. He was a ground officer, served in North Africa and Italy. I was born at Tuskegee in March 1942, when my Mom left Philadelphia to be with him while he was in training. I remember lots of stories my Mom and Dad told me about that period. Jim Ramsey, the Flight Surgeon for the 99th delivered me. Wonder if your father remembers my Dad. His name was Eugene Weaver, but everyone called him Tony. It is nice to see some of this history being remembered. When I was in high school I went to the main branch of the free library here in Philadelphia to look up the history on the 99th and 332nd in the official history of the war complied by the Army. As I recall there were at least ten large volumes on the war in Europe. One small paragraph was devoted to the black Army Air Corps units. No mention was made of their acomplishments escorting bombers over Germany, or of the bombing raids into Romania by black bomber crews, or any of the events you memtioned in your tribute. Only now are these things receiving the recognition they should have received long ago. Eugene (Tony) Weaver. Jr.
Dear Phyllis, I've visited your beautiful website tribute to your father, J.P. Gomer. With tears in my eyes and plenty of warmth in my heart I salute not only your father, a true hero, but you as well. May your family be blessed with a rich and long life ahead. May your father see his grandchildren grow up in a free America and a free world, one where racial barriers are broken. Mabuhay Po Kayo, Butch Cabanban - Manila, Philippines
I just wanted to drop you a note and say Thank you for putting your father's story out here for everyone to see. I also am proud of your father and all the Tuskegee airmen. Sincerely, Lisa Stay - Louisville, KY
Ms. Douglass, Thank you for sharing your father's experiences of WWII. The military value of the Tuskegee Airmen, though hidden by history, cannot be understated or diminished by time. You have every right to be proud. I teach Social Studies (Government and History) at Palestine High School in Palestine Tx. One of the first ideas I try to establish is that history is an unbreakable rubber band. It can stretch out of sight but will recoil and return. The history your father and those other brave men made is about to return to view.
I came across your web page about your father, THE TUSKEGEE AIRMEN - A Tribute to my Father. I am researching my fathers unit in World War II, 354th Engineer Regiment (colored) and I came across your page. I just want to say well done. M. Custalow
Dear Phyllis, I have just reviewed your site again. My daughter is visiting me, she is a history teacher at Fontana High school , in Fontana Ca. she was very impressed with your website. I don't know if I gave you the web page address for TAI. There are a lot of links that you will find interesting. We have 9 Chapters on line. LATAI Website: http:members.aol.com/jtomlin228/latai National TAI Website: http:members.aol.com/jtomlin228/tai Joycelin
Thank you for the tribute you shared about your honored father. There are few men like him alive today. My father earned the Distinguished Flying Cross as a Navy bomber gunner in the Pacific during those same years. I'm sure he wished he had the impenetrable cover provided the bombers in Europe by your father and men like him. Thank you again. Respectfully, John Parmer
These are some of the wonderful, and inspirational comments I have received regarding this web site and the accomplishments of the Tuskegee Airmen. Many of you have included stories of your own in your email that I believe will be of interest to others. I would like to share them with everyone to create an awareness and understanding.
Please keep the comments and information coming. If for some reason you do not wish to have your comments appear on this page, send me an email requesting that it be removed. I will do so immediately. Thank you!
Phyllis: I'm so proud of you and your father. As an African American father of four I hope that I can be the inspiration to my children as your father is to you. Model airplanes is my hobby. I'm aware of the Red Tail Project and of the current 1/6th model. I plan to build mine in 1/5th scale. I'll keep you posted of it. I would be honored to make my model as accurate of the actual one your father flew. If you can, please send me the model number and info of where I can get any anfo. Thank you very much. Stan McCrary, Nats Mack@aol.com
Dear Ms.Phyllis Douglass: I thoroughly enjoyed the tribute you made toward your father. "The Tuskegee Airmen: A Tribute to my Father" was informative, giving me an in-depth view of the experiences of the airmen. I was moved by the tribute. I would like to share your article with our viewers. Currently, I write and edit the Black history page of World African New Media website. I would like to reprint your tribute to your father for our Memorial Weekend tribute. I am requesting your permission to place your tribute on the black history page. When you have an opportunity take time to view our site at www.wanonline.com. If you have any questions or comments place don't hesitate to e-mail me at michelle.jackson@worldafricannet.com. Thanks again for sharing your father's experiences. Peace, Michelle Jackson WANonline
Dear Ms.Douglass: I just wanted to drop you a note to compliment you on your tribute page. It was very well done, and very informative. I took my son to an air show here in Milwaukee today, and had the honor of meeting another of the Tuskegee pilots, a Mr. Harold Lingo. We talked quite a bit about his service, training, and how the military has changed since he was in. He was also kind enough to autograph my son's program for me, I will be sure to keep that so I can tell him all about it when he is older. Sincerely, Ron Schmitt
Good Morning Phyllis , what a wonderful Tribute. I hope that we will soon have more individual profiles on line. I am the Historian of the Los Angeles Chapter and the website committee for TAI. My daughter was a graduate of Tuskegee University in 1986. I am also the niece of Lt.Col. John Whitehead (Mr. Death) pg.150 in the lonely eagles. You are just across the freeway from me. Joycelin Tomlin ( jtomlin228/latai)
My children and I saw the surviving Tuskegee Airmen on the news (Los Angeles) last week and decided we needed to write and thank these WWII vets for their courage and bravery on our behalf. As the American's Creed acknowledges:"...American patriots sacrificed their lives and fortunes" for our country. We are very grateful. Kim Kane, Fullerton, California
Hello. While doing research for my website I came across your website tribute to your father. What a wonderful courageous story. all the best. Shaul Dover
Dear Phyllis: What a wonderful tribute to your father. My father was also in the WWII, however he was a Black GI in the pacific. For many years I would bug him about his exploits and relive them by fighting in my made up imaginary pacific jungles located in my back yard. Today I am a graphic designer, historian and model airplane builder. I am affiliated with one ofthe largest hobby shops in the country if not the world D and J Hobby Shop, in Cambell, Ca. Last week we received some decals (those markings that go onto plastic airplane kits) A company released a series of decale sheets on the tuskegee airmen. Well this particular sheet was titled SPOOKWAFFE. When this was brought to my attention my white partner, we both realized that something was wrong. I called the owner, who is a french man living in Florida, who responded that he was told this was what the black pilots called themselves. When asked where he got the info he said that one of the airmen told him but he could not remember the person. I found this name inflamatory, degrading and probably orginated from white units in the Army Air Corps. I realize that I am persuming alot by contacting you but I think that a proud daughter might want to set the record straight. The company is called Aero Master. There decals are sold world wide. If you feel as I do this guy needs to be enlilghtened please let me know. How many will be exposed to this false title I dont know but maybe just one more letter or fax might make this guy think twice about distorted history. Thanks and wonderful dedication to your father. Glen Hart
I saw the HBO movie about THE TUSKEGEE AIRMEN . I was deeply moved by portral of the Black Pilots & their story . I to am proud of to know that such a man as your Father was affiliated with the 99th . Until now i never heard of THE TUSKEGEE AIRMEN, but I am happy to saw now ,that I have been enriched by their story and have an even better story to tell my children. Thank you & your father and all the 99th for making me feel a whole lot better for knowing of their ability to show the world that we are all of one GOD and brothers till death regardless of race or color. B.J.
I hope this e-mail is reaching you in the best of health and spirits. Thank you for providing our community with this much-needed information. This is a beautiful site. Also, I just left a site that you should visit: http://www.africard.com/
A great dedication. Unfortunately the minority can make the majority look bad. I am a white Australian and I have been brought up to treat all races equally. The time is always changing. Now and in the future we WILL work better together as the old idealists die out. Kindest regards, Ronn RONN_WILLMOT@bigpond.com.au
Dear Ms Douglas: I am the editor of "Clear Prop", the newsletter of Experimental Aircraft Association (EAA)Chapter 49.April 1st is our next meeting and our speaker at that meeting will be a chapter member Arthur Freeman. Arthur was a mechanic on B-25's in the 477th, a Tuskegee Airman. I would like your permission to use your article on the Tuskegee Airmen "A Tribute to my Father. If I receive your okay in time I will publish it in our nl. The intent is to give our membership a little more background in the contribution of the Tuskegee heroes in the success of American armed forces in W.W.II. As aviators we are proud of the contribution of airpower in the conflict of W.W.II and since. The biggest airshow in the United States is an event held in July/Aug each year in Oshkosh,WI. It is the EAA Convention and Fly-in. A couple of years ago The Tuskegee Airmen were honored. These small honors are late in coming but I am proud that our generation is doing something about it. None of our heroes that put their lives on the line to allow us to continue to be strong as a nation should ever be forgotten. The lack of respect and lack of appreciation shown to our military disgust me. Two incidents that stand out in my mind is the treatment of our Viet Nam Vets and The Tuskegee Airmen. Thanks for listening. forgive me for getting on my soap box. David R. L'Heureux, nl editor EAA Chapter 49
I just read through your webpage about your father. I was deeply moved. My Grandfather served in World War II, and I have the upmost respect for all that did. I stumbled on to your page looking for stuff from the movie about your father's squadron. That movie is one of my favorites because it gives credit where credit was long over due. Your father and his squadmates were great men. I realize that you already know this, and don't need to be told by me. But I have studied World War II and your father and squadmates are some of the greatest heroes I have yet discovered. Thank you for sharing your father's story. I will never forget it. Sincerely, Jeremy Hemler
Pull up our website--another tribute to your father and the others--click on Red Tail Project---www.stat.umn.edu/smw.shtml. We're about 1/2 way on raising the money to rebuild "Skipper's Darling". Even have a 1/6th size model in wood that can be shipped and shown around the country. Plan on having it "graduate" and fly next year!! We need help in fund raising. Even got State of Minnesota to give us a large matching grant. Dick Williams; 612-472-3219; rjwill@sellavision.com
Dear Mrs. Douglass: My wife and I are attempting to find some class photos from her uncle (Lloyd Leslie Radcliffe) and stepfather's (Lloyd George Singletary) graduating classes from Tuskegee. Lloyd Goerge, according to Dr. Rose's book "Lonely Eagles" was in class 43C and we've not yet found which class Lloyd Leslie was in. Unfortunately, before my wife discovered the importance of the Tuskegee Airmen, she lost both of them. Then she married a World War II historian who immediately went nuts trying to find out more about them. We've surfed the net trying to find a historian or historical society working on a project that might help us get reproduction of the class photos, but to no avail. Do you have any ideas or leads which might help us? Thanks in advance for any help you. BTW -- Yours was a very touching and informative website. Brian & Michelle Bennett
Hi there, I am very grateful for what your father did for our country. I have watched the movie about the tuskegee airmen 4 times and i am ashamed of how white citizens treated these aviators. They are truly american heros!!!! Brian F. Bennett, Walter F. George School of Law, Mercer University, Macon, GA.
Hello, for my English class I am doing a report on an African-American who made a difference and I have decided to do mine on your father. Thank you for the information on the web page. Do you have any more information you could share with me? Thanks! ~Rook
Mrs.Douglas: I really enjoyed your page. The past two days in class we've read the play and watched the movie of the Tuskegee Airmen. I think its a very intresting topic to learn about and if you have any other information id be glad to learn!!! Brooke Hinson, Williamsburg,Va.
Hello Mrs. Douglass: I read your fathers story of his service to country during World War II. I know of my uncle's account of seeing the "little"friends" come into view any got great comfort at the sight,knowing that they had a fighting chance to get "home". He was a crew member on a B17 during WWII and served 23 years in the air force retiring in 1965. They 'made it ' home with the help of the fighters a few times, after being shot up by flak and German fighters. Thank your father for me ,if he's living . My uncle was my insperation and "hero" and it"s because of him ,i have always looked skyward and learn to fly. Because of people, like your father, Brought him "home " to inspire others, like myself and now I have done the same. Five nieces and nephews love to fly are wanting to become pilots. I have in my home, an 'airplane' room with my uncle's and other's pictures in a place of "honor".I would like to hang a picture of Your father dressed in his uniform during WWII, along side theirs if you send me one. Nationally reknown aviation artist,John Shaw, a local friend of mine has just complete a lithogragh, Honoring the "Red Tail Devil's and will be out this month. Email me for my address if you would like to send a copy of your father picture. Thxs in advance, Joe. E-mail: contref@aol
Phyllis, My name is Tim Ebeling, and I am a teacher at Central Alternative High School in Dubuque, Iowa. I have had the opportunity to meet your father this weekend as part of a project with which my students have been involved. Along with my teaching colleague John Adelmann, our students have planned a seminar to honor your father and his fellow Tuskegee Airmen. The seminar will be tomorrow night at Loras College here in Dubuque. I told your dad that I would e-mail you and send his love. Your web page about your father has provided us with invaluable information about his accomplishments. I'm sure your father will share some stories with you about his recent return to the state of his birth. He sends his love. Peace, Tim
Thanks very much for it, I'm an American History teacher and am going to use some of your pictures for the study guide we'll be doing on them Jerry V. Russell, American History and Internet Teacher, Apopka High School. http://www.cris.com/~glk/edlinks.html
Hello. I am currently designing a website that sells WWII, WWI, Vietnam, and other Military History books and was wondering if you would like to share a link. As a way to help people learn about these wars and military history in general, RixDobbs - the company I am working for, is providing a database of links that will match with the products we sell. A am proposing a shared link. RixDobbs, a new internet shopping business (http://www.rixdobbs.com) would link to your site and, if you would, you will ad a link to the RixDobbs site somewhere on your pages. Please contact me with your interest in this proposal. Thank you for your time, Ben Tiedt, The Weekend Webmaster, weekendwebmaster@cyberservices.com
I read your wonderful tribute to your father on the internet. Several years ago I was given a photograph by the widow of a close friend of mine. It is a panoramic photo of the 322nd at Lockebourne Air Field. I would like any information about this photograph and help in identifying the men in the picture. My friend's name was Leroyal Thornton and he was a mechanic. My home e mail address is jbrackst@aol.com Thank you for your time. Sincerely, Joe Bracket
I just read your tribute to your father who was a Tuskegee airman. You must be very proud of him. I just saw the HBO Tuskegee movie on rental and was very moved by it. I had previously been aware of these courageous men from being a pilot and member of the Experimental Aircraft Association, but it was fascinating to read of your very close personal experience. My dad was in the infantry in Pacific in WWII and I had an uncle who was crew chief on P-47s in Burma. Take Care, Dr. Gary Hoffman - DrHoff@prodigy.net
Dear Ms. Douglass: I watched the movie about the Tuskegee Airmen last evening and wondered if there was any material about them on the web. Found your excellent site recognizing your father, Joseph P. Gomer. I was a little boy when your father and the other men of his unit made American history under most adverse circumstances. I am now an older man and an Air Force retiree. The Tuskegee Airmen's courage and accomplishments are an inspiration to all who will take the time to study and appreciate such things. With your permission, Ms. Douglas, may I join your standing ovation for your father. He and the other men were and are truly American heros. Respectfully, David L. Lewis, San Angelo, Texas
Ms Douglass: Your page honoring your father and the Tuskegee Airman was wonderful. I am archiving it with other documentation and info to show to my 1 year old daughter in a few years. Regard, Ameed Taylor
I just watched the movie "Tuskegee Fighters". I was very moved seeing what your father went thru and what he accomplished. Please let him know that I give him a very late thank you and congratulations for all the bomber crews lives that he and his friends saved. Your farther is truly a great man and a part of American history that we cannot forget. Sincerely, Mark Dussell
Hello Phyllis. A very nice tribute. Your father is surely a pioneer. I did not know of the Tuskegee Airmen until I saw the movie. They gave so much and all they asked for in return was to be treated equal. You can be very proud of your dad, all of us Americans have what we have because guys like your dad fought, and fought hard. I hope you can forgive my race for what they did to yours. Please tell your father I admire him and salute him. I am one American who is proud of the Tuskegee Airmen. Sincerely, Walter W. Flowers
Hello, Thank you for not only being proud, but for taking the time to put your feelings on the web. I do displays for our Wisconsin Chapter of the 8th Air Force Hist. So. We fill two large tables with books, old and new on WW II. Recently I added "TUSKEGEE'S HEROES" by Charlie & Ann Cooper. I chose this book over others because of the aviation art work by Roy LaGrone. Last fall we developed a display, on a six foor table, just for POW's. I hope to develope a display dedicated to the Tuskegee men, to include the ground crews and support personnel. I hope to include information about the 761st Tank Battalion, an all black WW II tank outfit. I just finished reading about these men in a soft cover book called HIT HARD, by David J. Williams. Mr. Williams was the white commanding officer of the 761st. I am a retired US Army career man with 27 years service. These two books brought tears to my eyes many times as I read them. To bad that stories like these are not required reading in our schools. I do carry on, don't I. Sorry about that! All my work with our 8th A.F. Chapter is volunteer and I enjoy it. Wish me luck with helping to tell the stories of our WW II black men as well as others. Thank you again and good luck. Dave B.
I just visited your web site and wanted to compliment you on a good job and a great tribute. I have a few more military history facts that you may find interesting. The US Navy was an integrated service at it's conception in 1775. The Confederate army was integrated 86 years before the US Army. No blacks were drafted by the CSA, they all volunteered. The 92nd Infantry Regiment's shoulder patch features a French 'Adrian' style helmet to recall the division's service in WW1. Black American regiments in the 92nd Division fought in the line with the French Algerians. Because the French Algerians were so tough, the Germans regarded the American black soldiers with the same fear. The French and British Armies thought the US troops should become replacements in their lines, and under their command. A former officer of the 10th Cavalry, John J. "Black Jack" Pershing was able to keep the US Army together by placating the French, and sending the 92nd into their line. Many Blacks served in the "Red Ball Express" running trucks from Normandy to wherever the front lines were after D-Day. Other than MP's who had to stand at crossroads, this was one of the most dangerous jobs outside the Infantry. Again, thanks for sharing you dad with the world on the net. Andy Zappone
Dear Ms. Douglass: While browsing the "net|" looking for some information on the Tuskegee Airmen I came across your wonderful tribute to your father . As the proud father of a seven year old girl I only hope I can do as good a job as your dad has so obviously done. Warmest Regards, C.P. (Phil) Bruner
Hey, great site. I watched the movie, Tuskeege Airmen, and i don't know how accurate it is. But from what u have on the web page, it seems pretty accurate. I am fascinated with WWII aviation, as well as the war itself. I'm a flying fanatic, and the Mustang is my favorite plane. I hate jet fighters, except for the Me-262. Anyway, I just wanted to say that I respect your father for what he has accomplished in his life, as well as all the the other "Tuskegee Airmen". It is incredible how not a single B-17 was lost when they flew escort. It is equally incredible how these men fough segregation, and coped with their supressors. P.S. AOL has a multiplayer ga,e called Air Warrior. In it you get to fly WWII aircraft against other people over the internet. You can also form squadrons. Well, I'm the CO of the 332nd Tuskegee Airmen.
Phyllis, I visited your web page dedicated to The Tuskegee Airmen today. My dear friends Jackie and Johnnie Reeves were stationed with your parents, in Germany I believe, and have remained good friends. Jackie sent an e-mail after your parents left last weekend asking me to call up your page--what an education! And what a moving tribute to your father. Also, a well-deserved "thank you" to all African American military personnel--no matter the war or "political action" they may have served in! Thank you for sharing this information with the rest of us. While racism has not totally disappeared from our society, your father's story, and that of the other Tuskagee Airmen, could be just the beam of light shed on a path of understanding for some folks... Sincerely, Karen Yowell
Phyllis, I enjoyed your article on your father. I have been a big fan of the Tuskegee Airmen since I found out about them in 1968 from the Bill Cosby TV special, "Black History -- Lost, Stolen or Strayed." I have several books on them and, for a while, was an auxiliary member of the organization. A couple of years ago I was fortunate enough to have been invited to the premier of the HBO special, "The Tuskegee Airmen." I know that you are very, very proud of your father and it must be a wonderful feeling for both you and him knowing that he, and the rest of his fabled squadronmates, are now getting the credit they deserve. Thank you for sharing your father's story. He's a hero not only to you but to many, many others who recognize the greatness of his accomplishments. Mitch Mitchell, Public Relations Manager, Hewlett-Packard/San Diego
Phyllis: I thoroughly enjoyed the tribute to your father....... I happened upon it while searching for information on Black Wartime Art. My Grandfather left me a painted kiln fired clay piece of a Black WWII GI on his hands and knees shooting craps with money in his left hand. I understand that Black Art is very hot right now from that era........If you have any info or could maybe ask your father if he remembers the piece, I would appreciate it very much. Your Dad's story is ver inspiring. I saw the movie!! Would be interested in knowing if your father felt it was an acurate portrayal...Thank you for your time and great web-page!!! Don Searcy JR
Dear Ms. Douglas, I enjoyed reading about your father's actions in WW 2. I am a very conservative American with white skin. I am sorry that this country has failed to recognize the great contributions that Americans with black skin have also made to it development. It seems that few people realize that a large number of the american "cowboys" were black and that many deputy U.S. Marshal back in the late 1800"s were also black. TV has done us all a dis-service. If the media could be convinced to tell the stories as they were as opposed to the way the media would have us believe there would most likely be less racial tension and more true harmony. Please tell your father that we are all proud of him and his fellow airman of WW 2.
Ms. Douglass: The treatment of the Tuskegee Airmen by many Americans, especially by some of their fellow AAF officers, was shameful and a disgrace to the nation. But many of us held them in high esteem indeed. I was a B-24 navigator in the 782nd BS/465th BG, flying missions from May through August 1944. We knew who the "Red Tails" were and we appreciated the way they fishtailed in close to escort us (so that we could recognize them as P-51s), and the way they stayed with us to the target. I recall a couple of occasions seeing a group of black officers wearing pilot's wings on the street in Bari or Naples, realizing who they must be, and we crossed the street to shake their hands. By the way, we felt the same way about the 325th "Checkertails," who were white and who also were great escorts, but we were well aware of how much more it meant that black fighter pilots were flying combat along with us. Of course I'm a New Yorker and had a different attitude than some of the Southerners had. By the way, for a while we confused the 325th and the 332nd, because we'd heard that the Tuskegee Airmen flew checker-tailed airplanes. It wasn't till I was on the Prodigy WWII bulletin board a couple of years ago that I learned, from one of the 325th pilots, that the 332nd took over the 325th's P-47s when the Checkertails got P-51s. They didn't bother repainting the checkered tails because it was just temporary, till they got their own P-51s and had the tails painted red. So 50 years later I learned why we'd been confused about the 332nd's tail markings. Ask your father about it. Anyway, just wanted you to know that there are quite a few of us old bomber guys who appreciated your dad and his fellow Tuskegee pilots, and that all these years later we haven't forgotten. Keep 'em flying, Curmudgeon (Al Berger)
DEAR PHYLLIS: I ENJOYED THE MOVIE SO MUCH I HAVE WATCHED IT SEVERAL TIMES. HOW PROUD YOUR DAD SHOULD BE OF YOU TO SEE HOW YOU HAVE KEPT ALL OF HIM FELLOW AIRMEN MEMORIES ALIVE STILL IN THIS MODERN COMPUTER WORLD. FONDEST REGARDS, DICK CHRISTENSEN, COOPER CITY, FLORIDA.
I just wanted to let you know that while surfing the web, looking for interesting pieces of African-American history, I ran across your homepage through a Yahoo search and I was really moved by your tribute. My father was a navigator in Vietnam of transports and he was the first person to introduce me to the Tuskegee Airmen. Your father was a member of a group of truly great men that fought and overcame overwhelming adversities. Your pride in this and his accomplishments shine through. Thank you for creating this page. Love and Peace! Mark Johnson



COMMENTS & STORIES - SECTION II
ARCHIVES SECTION I SECTION III SECTION VI HOME	\| HAPPENINGS \| COMMENTS & STORIES \| PORTRAIT \| RESOURCES \| Here are more comments and stories shared with me in the past months. Thank you all for your wonderful and inspiring contributions! Click on different sections to view subsequent Tuskegee Archives. Dear Ms.Douglass: Please excuse me mailing you directly, but I just wanted to offer sincere thanks for your inspirational and informative page about your father and the Tuskegee airmen. There is a certain serendipity at work here; only the other evening there was a splendid film aired on the television concerning the 99th (featuring Laurence Fishburn and Cuba Gooding.Jr.) So, today I was browsing the net WWII section for research purposes -- in the hope of finding an equivalent homepage about black flyers of the British Commonwealth -- and found your page. My interest in the last World War stems from my father's own service - an infantryman with the British 8th Army (Desert Rats) who fought at El Alamein and elsewhere - and extends to all the theatres and services; and further, to the Great War. Though I was not born until 1963 - a late child - I feel always the ghosts of that shining generation - bright, wonderful young men and women - at my shoulder and a sense of duty and responsibility not to let succeeding generations forget the honour and sacrifice of those who fought to protect our freedoms. To my mind, the Tuskegee airmen, perhaps more than any other unit, are the living embodiment of everything that was truly being fought for -- the right to say that all people are created equal; an end to oppression and tyranny. They stand as an example to us all. With gratitude I honour the memory of your father and his fellow aviators, many of whom paid the price of our tomorrow with their today. Lest we forget. I remain yours sincerely, Russell Lewis - Surrey, England. (Letter - Central Alternative Highschool, Dubuque, Iowa, October, 18, 2001) Dear Mr. Gomer: I'd like to thank you for the many things that you've done for my class and me; both directly and indirectly. Your deeds throughout your life have affected all of us in an incredible way. From the heroic changes that all veterans face in war, to the unique obstacles you and the Tuskegee Airmen had to overcome to not only earn your wings, but the respect of a doubtful nation, you've taught us a lot. We've learned many things such as dedication, honor, and perserverance. With your attendance at the seminar and the weekend events these lessons were amplified, as we were able to see in person these heroes who we had read so much about. I especially enjoyed your vivid storytelling at Washington Jr. High. Being one of the emcees for the evening seminar I was a little nervous, (even though not as many people showed up as we had hoped) but you made us laugh and enjoy our night even more. That really made your personal story seem more real and made the hardships you overcame easier to empathize with and understand. Along with Mr. Martin and Col. McGee, you made everyone feel like our work was worthwhile. This has encouraged us to keep alive the mentality of perserverance and the determination to settle for nothing bur success, for the rest of our high school careers and adult lives. So thanks again for helping us accomplish as the 1998 students put it, "more than we ever though possible." Sincerely, Liz Blair Forgive my uninvited mail but I feel compelled to write having just read 'A tribute to my father'. My name is Richard Munro, I am 27 years old, white, living in London, England and have just watched the film of 'The Tuskegee Airmen'. I was so impressed that I find myself researching more of these wonderful men on the Internet - something I have never before done after hearing a story - and the first site I found was this story. Your father and the other heros of the Redtails fought through disgraceful and unforgivable racial hatred and discrimination. Unforgivable, yet they forgave and fought for what they believed in, and won. Their personal victories both in battle and against the establishment is inspirational and I find it dreadful that they are only now beginning to get the recognition and thanks that they have always deserve, and the respect that any human being should always have been entitled to, yet they have had to fight for. They have my utmost respect and gratitude as member of our free world. I know that there are still racial difficulties, and I understand that they are worse in the States than in England which becomes more cosmopolitan every year. I too long for a world where colour or creed matters to no-one, but while we live in one where it still does, know that here is one more person for whom these men were and are heroes, and knows how proud they must have been to be so and to be black, for I feel that pride for them too. Thank you for sharing the tale. Richard Munro Dear Mrs. Douglas, I stumbled across your website tribute to your father and I thouroughly enjoyed it. I am a African-American female 1st lt in the Air Force. I am a aerovac nurse. I earned my wings last summer, in 1997. I am not a pilot, but our crews are small, and we have a very close relationship with the pilots. Each and every time I fly, I think of the Tuskegee Airmen. I am very proud of them. Most of the African-Americans in my unit proudly display decals of the Tuskegee Airmen men on our flight bags, trip kits etc, to serve as a reminder to all, and our crew, and those we meet of these heroes. I would like to know where to get more decals, etc. to display. I have the collector's edition 12 in. GI Joes too. The Air Force has made great strives in improving race relations, but I think that I can speak for other African-American officers when I say racism is not irradicated. I am sorry to say that I missed the surviving airmen when they came to March AFB, Ca. I would love to meet at least one in my lifetime! I thank you again for your site, and I proudly salute your father; " Maj. Joe Gomer" Ingrid M. Abrams (1st Lt, USAF,NC.) Dear Phyllis, Just a little note, to let you know how much my fiance and I enjoyed your page. I felt like crying and applauding. Thank you for telling us about your father and his life. Valerie McKiernan Just found your web page and your wonderful tribute to your father. My Dad was also in the 99th. He was a ground officer, served in North Africa and Italy. I was born at Tuskegee in March 1942, when my Mom left Philadelphia to be with him while he was in training. I remember lots of stories my Mom and Dad told me about that period. Jim Ramsey, the Flight Surgeon for the 99th delivered me. Wonder if your father remembers my Dad. His name was Eugene Weaver, but everyone called him Tony. It is nice to see some of this history being remembered. When I was in high school I went to the main branch of the free library here in Philadelphia to look up the history on the 99th and 332nd in the official history of the war complied by the Army. As I recall there were at least ten large volumes on the war in Europe. One small paragraph was devoted to the black Army Air Corps units. No mention was made of their acomplishments escorting bombers over Germany, or of the bombing raids into Romania by black bomber crews, or any of the events you memtioned in your tribute. Only now are these things receiving the recognition they should have received long ago. Eugene (Tony) Weaver. Jr. Dear Phyllis, I've visited your beautiful website tribute to your father, J.P. Gomer. With tears in my eyes and plenty of warmth in my heart I salute not only your father, a true hero, but you as well. May your family be blessed with a rich and long life ahead. May your father see his grandchildren grow up in a free America and a free world, one where racial barriers are broken. Mabuhay Po Kayo, Butch Cabanban - Manila, Philippines I just wanted to drop you a note and say Thank you for putting your father's story out here for everyone to see. I also am proud of your father and all the Tuskegee airmen. Sincerely, Lisa Stay - Louisville, KY Ms. Douglass, Thank you for sharing your father's experiences of WWII. The military value of the Tuskegee Airmen, though hidden by history, cannot be understated or diminished by time. You have every right to be proud. I teach Social Studies (Government and History) at Palestine High School in Palestine Tx. One of the first ideas I try to establish is that history is an unbreakable rubber band. It can stretch out of sight but will recoil and return. The history your father and those other brave men made is about to return to view. I came across your web page about your father, THE TUSKEGEE AIRMEN - A Tribute to my Father. I am researching my fathers unit in World War II, 354th Engineer Regiment (colored) and I came across your page. I just want to say well done. M. Custalow Dear Phyllis, I have just reviewed your site again. My daughter is visiting me, she is a history teacher at Fontana High school , in Fontana Ca. she was very impressed with your website. I don't know if I gave you the web page address for TAI. There are a lot of links that you will find interesting. We have 9 Chapters on line. LATAI Website: http:members.aol.com/jtomlin228/latai National TAI Website: http:members.aol.com/jtomlin228/tai Joycelin Thank you for the tribute you shared about your honored father. There are few men like him alive today. My father earned the Distinguished Flying Cross as a Navy bomber gunner in the Pacific during those same years. I'm sure he wished he had the impenetrable cover provided the bombers in Europe by your father and men like him. Thank you again. Respectfully, John Parmer These are some of the wonderful, and inspirational comments I have received regarding this web site and the accomplishments of the Tuskegee Airmen. Many of you have included stories of your own in your email that I believe will be of interest to others. I would like to share them with everyone to create an awareness and understanding. Please keep the comments and information coming. If for some reason you do not wish to have your comments appear on this page, send me an email requesting that it be removed. I will do so immediately. Thank you! Phyllis: I'm so proud of you and your father. As an African American father of four I hope that I can be the inspiration to my children as your father is to you. Model airplanes is my hobby. I'm aware of the Red Tail Project and of the current 1/6th model. I plan to build mine in 1/5th scale. I'll keep you posted of it. I would be honored to make my model as accurate of the actual one your father flew. If you can, please send me the model number and info of where I can get any anfo. Thank you very much. Stan McCrary, Nats Mack@aol.com Dear Ms.Phyllis Douglass: I thoroughly enjoyed the tribute you made toward your father. "The Tuskegee Airmen: A Tribute to my Father" was informative, giving me an in-depth view of the experiences of the airmen. I was moved by the tribute. I would like to share your article with our viewers. Currently, I write and edit the Black history page of World African New Media website. I would like to reprint your tribute to your father for our Memorial Weekend tribute. I am requesting your permission to place your tribute on the black history page. When you have an opportunity take time to view our site at www.wanonline.com. If you have any questions or comments place don't hesitate to e-mail me at michelle.jackson@worldafricannet.com. Thanks again for sharing your father's experiences. Peace, Michelle Jackson WANonline Dear Ms.Douglass: I just wanted to drop you a note to compliment you on your tribute page. It was very well done, and very informative. I took my son to an air show here in Milwaukee today, and had the honor of meeting another of the Tuskegee pilots, a Mr. Harold Lingo. We talked quite a bit about his service, training, and how the military has changed since he was in. He was also kind enough to autograph my son's program for me, I will be sure to keep that so I can tell him all about it when he is older. Sincerely, Ron Schmitt Good Morning Phyllis , what a wonderful Tribute. I hope that we will soon have more individual profiles on line. I am the Historian of the Los Angeles Chapter and the website committee for TAI. My daughter was a graduate of Tuskegee University in 1986. I am also the niece of Lt.Col. John Whitehead (Mr. Death) pg.150 in the lonely eagles. You are just across the freeway from me. Joycelin Tomlin ( jtomlin228/latai) My children and I saw the surviving Tuskegee Airmen on the news (Los Angeles) last week and decided we needed to write and thank these WWII vets for their courage and bravery on our behalf. As the American's Creed acknowledges:"...American patriots sacrificed their lives and fortunes" for our country. We are very grateful. Kim Kane, Fullerton, California Hello. While doing research for my website I came across your website tribute to your father. What a wonderful courageous story. all the best. Shaul Dover Dear Phyllis: What a wonderful tribute to your father. My father was also in the WWII, however he was a Black GI in the pacific. For many years I would bug him about his exploits and relive them by fighting in my made up imaginary pacific jungles located in my back yard. Today I am a graphic designer, historian and model airplane builder. I am affiliated with one ofthe largest hobby shops in the country if not the world D and J Hobby Shop, in Cambell, Ca. Last week we received some decals (those markings that go onto plastic airplane kits) A company released a series of decale sheets on the tuskegee airmen. Well this particular sheet was titled SPOOKWAFFE. When this was brought to my attention my white partner, we both realized that something was wrong. I called the owner, who is a french man living in Florida, who responded that he was told this was what the black pilots called themselves. When asked where he got the info he said that one of the airmen told him but he could not remember the person. I found this name inflamatory, degrading and probably orginated from white units in the Army Air Corps. I realize that I am persuming alot by contacting you but I think that a proud daughter might want to set the record straight. The company is called Aero Master. There decals are sold world wide. If you feel as I do this guy needs to be enlilghtened please let me know. How many will be exposed to this false title I dont know but maybe just one more letter or fax might make this guy think twice about distorted history. Thanks and wonderful dedication to your father. Glen Hart I saw the HBO movie about THE TUSKEGEE AIRMEN . I was deeply moved by portral of the Black Pilots & their story . I to am proud of to know that such a man as your Father was affiliated with the 99th . Until now i never heard of THE TUSKEGEE AIRMEN, but I am happy to saw now ,that I have been enriched by their story and have an even better story to tell my children. Thank you & your father and all the 99th for making me feel a whole lot better for knowing of their ability to show the world that we are all of one GOD and brothers till death regardless of race or color. B.J. I hope this e-mail is reaching you in the best of health and spirits. Thank you for providing our community with this much-needed information. This is a beautiful site. Also, I just left a site that you should visit: http://www.africard.com/ A great dedication. Unfortunately the minority can make the majority look bad. I am a white Australian and I have been brought up to treat all races equally. The time is always changing. Now and in the future we WILL work better together as the old idealists die out. Kindest regards, Ronn RONN_WILLMOT@bigpond.com.au Dear Ms Douglas: I am the editor of "Clear Prop", the newsletter of Experimental Aircraft Association (EAA)Chapter 49.April 1st is our next meeting and our speaker at that meeting will be a chapter member Arthur Freeman. Arthur was a mechanic on B-25's in the 477th, a Tuskegee Airman. I would like your permission to use your article on the Tuskegee Airmen "A Tribute to my Father. If I receive your okay in time I will publish it in our nl. The intent is to give our membership a little more background in the contribution of the Tuskegee heroes in the success of American armed forces in W.W.II. As aviators we are proud of the contribution of airpower in the conflict of W.W.II and since. The biggest airshow in the United States is an event held in July/Aug each year in Oshkosh,WI. It is the EAA Convention and Fly-in. A couple of years ago The Tuskegee Airmen were honored. These small honors are late in coming but I am proud that our generation is doing something about it. None of our heroes that put their lives on the line to allow us to continue to be strong as a nation should ever be forgotten. The lack of respect and lack of appreciation shown to our military disgust me. Two incidents that stand out in my mind is the treatment of our Viet Nam Vets and The Tuskegee Airmen. Thanks for listening. forgive me for getting on my soap box. David R. L'Heureux, nl editor EAA Chapter 49 I just read through your webpage about your father. I was deeply moved. My Grandfather served in World War II, and I have the upmost respect for all that did. I stumbled on to your page looking for stuff from the movie about your father's squadron. That movie is one of my favorites because it gives credit where credit was long over due. Your father and his squadmates were great men. I realize that you already know this, and don't need to be told by me. But I have studied World War II and your father and squadmates are some of the greatest heroes I have yet discovered. Thank you for sharing your father's story. I will never forget it. Sincerely, Jeremy Hemler Pull up our website--another tribute to your father and the others--click on Red Tail Project---www.stat.umn.edu/smw.shtml. We're about 1/2 way on raising the money to rebuild "Skipper's Darling". Even have a 1/6th size model in wood that can be shipped and shown around the country. Plan on having it "graduate" and fly next year!! We need help in fund raising. Even got State of Minnesota to give us a large matching grant. Dick Williams; 612-472-3219; rjwill@sellavision.com Dear Mrs. Douglass: My wife and I are attempting to find some class photos from her uncle (Lloyd Leslie Radcliffe) and stepfather's (Lloyd George Singletary) graduating classes from Tuskegee. Lloyd Goerge, according to Dr. Rose's book "Lonely Eagles" was in class 43C and we've not yet found which class Lloyd Leslie was in. Unfortunately, before my wife discovered the importance of the Tuskegee Airmen, she lost both of them. Then she married a World War II historian who immediately went nuts trying to find out more about them. We've surfed the net trying to find a historian or historical society working on a project that might help us get reproduction of the class photos, but to no avail. Do you have any ideas or leads which might help us? Thanks in advance for any help you. BTW -- Yours was a very touching and informative website. Brian & Michelle Bennett Hi there, I am very grateful for what your father did for our country. I have watched the movie about the tuskegee airmen 4 times and i am ashamed of how white citizens treated these aviators. They are truly american heros!!!! Brian F. Bennett, Walter F. George School of Law, Mercer University, Macon, GA. Hello, for my English class I am doing a report on an African-American who made a difference and I have decided to do mine on your father. Thank you for the information on the web page. Do you have any more information you could share with me? Thanks! ~Rook Mrs.Douglas: I really enjoyed your page. The past two days in class we've read the play and watched the movie of the Tuskegee Airmen. I think its a very intresting topic to learn about and if you have any other information id be glad to learn!!! Brooke Hinson, Williamsburg,Va. Hello Mrs. Douglass: I read your fathers story of his service to country during World War II. I know of my uncle's account of seeing the "little"friends" come into view any got great comfort at the sight,knowing that they had a fighting chance to get "home". He was a crew member on a B17 during WWII and served 23 years in the air force retiring in 1965. They 'made it ' home with the help of the fighters a few times, after being shot up by flak and German fighters. Thank your father for me ,if he's living . My uncle was my insperation and "hero" and it"s because of him ,i have always looked skyward and learn to fly. Because of people, like your father, Brought him "home " to inspire others, like myself and now I have done the same. Five nieces and nephews love to fly are wanting to become pilots. I have in my home, an 'airplane' room with my uncle's and other's pictures in a place of "honor".I would like to hang a picture of Your father dressed in his uniform during WWII, along side theirs if you send me one. Nationally reknown aviation artist,John Shaw, a local friend of mine has just complete a lithogragh, Honoring the "Red Tail Devil's and will be out this month. Email me for my address if you would like to send a copy of your father picture. Thxs in advance, Joe. E-mail: contref@aol Phyllis, My name is Tim Ebeling, and I am a teacher at Central Alternative High School in Dubuque, Iowa. I have had the opportunity to meet your father this weekend as part of a project with which my students have been involved. Along with my teaching colleague John Adelmann, our students have planned a seminar to honor your father and his fellow Tuskegee Airmen. The seminar will be tomorrow night at Loras College here in Dubuque. I told your dad that I would e-mail you and send his love. Your web page about your father has provided us with invaluable information about his accomplishments. I'm sure your father will share some stories with you about his recent return to the state of his birth. He sends his love. Peace, Tim Thanks very much for it, I'm an American History teacher and am going to use some of your pictures for the study guide we'll be doing on them Jerry V. Russell, American History and Internet Teacher, Apopka High School. http://www.cris.com/~glk/edlinks.html Hello. I am currently designing a website that sells WWII, WWI, Vietnam, and other Military History books and was wondering if you would like to share a link. As a way to help people learn about these wars and military history in general, RixDobbs - the company I am working for, is providing a database of links that will match with the products we sell. A am proposing a shared link. RixDobbs, a new internet shopping business (http://www.rixdobbs.com) would link to your site and, if you would, you will ad a link to the RixDobbs site somewhere on your pages. Please contact me with your interest in this proposal. Thank you for your time, Ben Tiedt, The Weekend Webmaster, weekendwebmaster@cyberservices.com I read your wonderful tribute to your father on the internet. Several years ago I was given a photograph by the widow of a close friend of mine. It is a panoramic photo of the 322nd at Lockebourne Air Field. I would like any information about this photograph and help in identifying the men in the picture. My friend's name was Leroyal Thornton and he was a mechanic. My home e mail address is jbrackst@aol.com Thank you for your time. Sincerely, Joe Bracket I just read your tribute to your father who was a Tuskegee airman. You must be very proud of him. I just saw the HBO Tuskegee movie on rental and was very moved by it. I had previously been aware of these courageous men from being a pilot and member of the Experimental Aircraft Association, but it was fascinating to read of your very close personal experience. My dad was in the infantry in Pacific in WWII and I had an uncle who was crew chief on P-47s in Burma. Take Care, Dr. Gary Hoffman - DrHoff@prodigy.net Dear Ms. Douglass: I watched the movie about the Tuskegee Airmen last evening and wondered if there was any material about them on the web. Found your excellent site recognizing your father, Joseph P. Gomer. I was a little boy when your father and the other men of his unit made American history under most adverse circumstances. I am now an older man and an Air Force retiree. The Tuskegee Airmen's courage and accomplishments are an inspiration to all who will take the time to study and appreciate such things. With your permission, Ms. Douglas, may I join your standing ovation for your father. He and the other men were and are truly American heros. Respectfully, David L. Lewis, San Angelo, Texas Ms Douglass: Your page honoring your father and the Tuskegee Airman was wonderful. I am archiving it with other documentation and info to show to my 1 year old daughter in a few years. Regard, Ameed Taylor I just watched the movie "Tuskegee Fighters". I was very moved seeing what your father went thru and what he accomplished. Please let him know that I give him a very late thank you and congratulations for all the bomber crews lives that he and his friends saved. Your farther is truly a great man and a part of American history that we cannot forget. Sincerely, Mark Dussell Hello Phyllis. A very nice tribute. Your father is surely a pioneer. I did not know of the Tuskegee Airmen until I saw the movie. They gave so much and all they asked for in return was to be treated equal. You can be very proud of your dad, all of us Americans have what we have because guys like your dad fought, and fought hard. I hope you can forgive my race for what they did to yours. Please tell your father I admire him and salute him. I am one American who is proud of the Tuskegee Airmen. Sincerely, Walter W. Flowers Hello, Thank you for not only being proud, but for taking the time to put your feelings on the web. I do displays for our Wisconsin Chapter of the 8th Air Force Hist. So. We fill two large tables with books, old and new on WW II. Recently I added "TUSKEGEE'S HEROES" by Charlie & Ann Cooper. I chose this book over others because of the aviation art work by Roy LaGrone. Last fall we developed a display, on a six foor table, just for POW's. I hope to develope a display dedicated to the Tuskegee men, to include the ground crews and support personnel. I hope to include information about the 761st Tank Battalion, an all black WW II tank outfit. I just finished reading about these men in a soft cover book called HIT HARD, by David J. Williams. Mr. Williams was the white commanding officer of the 761st. I am a retired US Army career man with 27 years service. These two books brought tears to my eyes many times as I read them. To bad that stories like these are not required reading in our schools. I do carry on, don't I. Sorry about that! All my work with our 8th A.F. Chapter is volunteer and I enjoy it. Wish me luck with helping to tell the stories of our WW II black men as well as others. Thank you again and good luck. Dave B. I just visited your web site and wanted to compliment you on a good job and a great tribute. I have a few more military history facts that you may find interesting. The US Navy was an integrated service at it's conception in 1775. The Confederate army was integrated 86 years before the US Army. No blacks were drafted by the CSA, they all volunteered. The 92nd Infantry Regiment's shoulder patch features a French 'Adrian' style helmet to recall the division's service in WW1. Black American regiments in the 92nd Division fought in the line with the French Algerians. Because the French Algerians were so tough, the Germans regarded the American black soldiers with the same fear. The French and British Armies thought the US troops should become replacements in their lines, and under their command. A former officer of the 10th Cavalry, John J. "Black Jack" Pershing was able to keep the US Army together by placating the French, and sending the 92nd into their line. Many Blacks served in the "Red Ball Express" running trucks from Normandy to wherever the front lines were after D-Day. Other than MP's who had to stand at crossroads, this was one of the most dangerous jobs outside the Infantry. Again, thanks for sharing you dad with the world on the net. Andy Zappone Dear Ms. Douglass: While browsing the "net\|" looking for some information on the Tuskegee Airmen I came across your wonderful tribute to your father . As the proud father of a seven year old girl I only hope I can do as good a job as your dad has so obviously done. Warmest Regards, C.P. (Phil) Bruner Hey, great site. I watched the movie, Tuskeege Airmen, and i don't know how accurate it is. But from what u have on the web page, it seems pretty accurate. I am fascinated with WWII aviation, as well as the war itself. I'm a flying fanatic, and the Mustang is my favorite plane. I hate jet fighters, except for the Me-262. Anyway, I just wanted to say that I respect your father for what he has accomplished in his life, as well as all the the other "Tuskegee Airmen". It is incredible how not a single B-17 was lost when they flew escort. It is equally incredible how these men fough segregation, and coped with their supressors. P.S. AOL has a multiplayer ga,e called Air Warrior. In it you get to fly WWII aircraft against other people over the internet. You can also form squadrons. Well, I'm the CO of the 332nd Tuskegee Airmen. Phyllis, I visited your web page dedicated to The Tuskegee Airmen today. My dear friends Jackie and Johnnie Reeves were stationed with your parents, in Germany I believe, and have remained good friends. Jackie sent an e-mail after your parents left last weekend asking me to call up your page--what an education! And what a moving tribute to your father. Also, a well-deserved "thank you" to all African American military personnel--no matter the war or "political action" they may have served in! Thank you for sharing this information with the rest of us. While racism has not totally disappeared from our society, your father's story, and that of the other Tuskagee Airmen, could be just the beam of light shed on a path of understanding for some folks... Sincerely, Karen Yowell Phyllis, I enjoyed your article on your father. I have been a big fan of the Tuskegee Airmen since I found out about them in 1968 from the Bill Cosby TV special, "Black History -- Lost, Stolen or Strayed." I have several books on them and, for a while, was an auxiliary member of the organization. A couple of years ago I was fortunate enough to have been invited to the premier of the HBO special, "The Tuskegee Airmen." I know that you are very, very proud of your father and it must be a wonderful feeling for both you and him knowing that he, and the rest of his fabled squadronmates, are now getting the credit they deserve. Thank you for sharing your father's story. He's a hero not only to you but to many, many others who recognize the greatness of his accomplishments. Mitch Mitchell, Public Relations Manager, Hewlett-Packard/San Diego Phyllis: I thoroughly enjoyed the tribute to your father....... I happened upon it while searching for information on Black Wartime Art. My Grandfather left me a painted kiln fired clay piece of a Black WWII GI on his hands and knees shooting craps with money in his left hand. I understand that Black Art is very hot right now from that era........If you have any info or could maybe ask your father if he remembers the piece, I would appreciate it very much. Your Dad's story is ver inspiring. I saw the movie!! Would be interested in knowing if your father felt it was an acurate portrayal...Thank you for your time and great web-page!!! Don Searcy JR Dear Ms. Douglas, I enjoyed reading about your father's actions in WW 2. I am a very conservative American with white skin. I am sorry that this country has failed to recognize the great contributions that Americans with black skin have also made to it development. It seems that few people realize that a large number of the american "cowboys" were black and that many deputy U.S. Marshal back in the late 1800"s were also black. TV has done us all a dis-service. If the media could be convinced to tell the stories as they were as opposed to the way the media would have us believe there would most likely be less racial tension and more true harmony. Please tell your father that we are all proud of him and his fellow airman of WW 2. Ms. Douglass: The treatment of the Tuskegee Airmen by many Americans, especially by some of their fellow AAF officers, was shameful and a disgrace to the nation. But many of us held them in high esteem indeed. I was a B-24 navigator in the 782nd BS/465th BG, flying missions from May through August 1944. We knew who the "Red Tails" were and we appreciated the way they fishtailed in close to escort us (so that we could recognize them as P-51s), and the way they stayed with us to the target. I recall a couple of occasions seeing a group of black officers wearing pilot's wings on the street in Bari or Naples, realizing who they must be, and we crossed the street to shake their hands. By the way, we felt the same way about the 325th "Checkertails," who were white and who also were great escorts, but we were well aware of how much more it meant that black fighter pilots were flying combat along with us. Of course I'm a New Yorker and had a different attitude than some of the Southerners had. By the way, for a while we confused the 325th and the 332nd, because we'd heard that the Tuskegee Airmen flew checker-tailed airplanes. It wasn't till I was on the Prodigy WWII bulletin board a couple of years ago that I learned, from one of the 325th pilots, that the 332nd took over the 325th's P-47s when the Checkertails got P-51s. They didn't bother repainting the checkered tails because it was just temporary, till they got their own P-51s and had the tails painted red. So 50 years later I learned why we'd been confused about the 332nd's tail markings. Ask your father about it. Anyway, just wanted you to know that there are quite a few of us old bomber guys who appreciated your dad and his fellow Tuskegee pilots, and that all these years later we haven't forgotten. Keep 'em flying, Curmudgeon (Al Berger) DEAR PHYLLIS: I ENJOYED THE MOVIE SO MUCH I HAVE WATCHED IT SEVERAL TIMES. HOW PROUD YOUR DAD SHOULD BE OF YOU TO SEE HOW YOU HAVE KEPT ALL OF HIM FELLOW AIRMEN MEMORIES ALIVE STILL IN THIS MODERN COMPUTER WORLD. FONDEST REGARDS, DICK CHRISTENSEN, COOPER CITY, FLORIDA. I just wanted to let you know that while surfing the web, looking for interesting pieces of African-American history, I ran across your homepage through a Yahoo search and I was really moved by your tribute. My father was a navigator in Vietnam of transports and he was the first person to introduce me to the Tuskegee Airmen. Your father was a member of a group of truly great men that fought and overcame overwhelming adversities. Your pride in this and his accomplishments shine through. Thank you for creating this page. Love and Peace! Mark Johnson
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		Please contact author for further information regarding this web site, use of information and digital photography, speaking engagements, and inclusion in school curriculums. Email Author - Ms. Gomer-Douglass Copyright - November 1997. Please contact me for permission if you wish to utilize any text or photographs which appear on this web site. All rights reserved.