Pittman Honors Tuskegee Airmen with an Annual Day

OKLAHOMA CITY – Recently, State Representative Ajay Pittman, D-Oklahoma City, was proud to honor the Tuskegee Airmen on March 25th, 2024. The Tuskegee Airmen, the nation’s first black military pilots, made significant contributions to the United States during World War II and laid the foundation for the future success of African Americans in the U.S. Military.

The month of March held significance for the Tuskegee Airmen as it marked the period when the first five of thirteen cadets completed training and received their silver wings. In recognition of their service and impact, Rep. Ajay Pittman proposed that the fourth Thursday of March each year be designated as “Tuskegee Airmen Recognition Day.”

“I am deeply honored to have been part of the effort to recognize the Tuskegee Airmen in Oklahoma. These brave men not only fought for our country but also against prejudice and discrimination. Their courage and determination paved the way for future generations. Having a dedicated day to honor them in our state is a fitting tribute to their legacy,” said Pittman. 

This Tuskegee Airmen story is a testament to the strength of the human spirit and the power of perseverance in the face of adversity.

 “I was especially pleased to hold the historical commemorative Tuskegee Airmen Bomber Jacket of Mr. Edward W. Woodard, Sr. an original member, who was previously honored by the House of Representatives, as I welcomed the current Chapter members as floor guests with a couple of Tuskegee Airmen descendants,” said Rep. Ajay Pittman. “The floor guests included Kelli Hall Jones, Sherri L Harris, Floyd Gordon, Duboise Gooden, Karl Wilburn, Curtis Blunt, and Theresa Taylor, granddaughter of Mr. Edward Woodard, Sr.”

The Tuskegee Airmen, including Charles B. Hall, who made Oklahoma City his home after his military career, and others from various parts of Oklahoma, demonstrated unwavering commitment and bravery.

According to President Smith, their service not only contributed to the end of the Second World War but also catalyzed significant civil rights advancements in the United States.

“I wanted to extend a special thank you to Representative Ajay Pittman and Senator Kevin Matthews for their hard work and dedication to this effort,” said Mahlon Smith, President of the Charles B. Hall Chapter. “In spite of the passage of time, the legacy and courage of these brave men and women will now forever be remembered in American history.”

“The Tuskegee Airmen represent the spirit of service to our nation. As we honored them on the House floor, we acknowledged the pivotal role they played in our history and the progress they sparked for African Americans in the military,” said Pittman.

For more information about this recognition, please contact Rep. Ajay Pittman at (405) 557-7393 or ajay.pittman@okhouse.gov

Photo: Left to right

President Mahlon Smith, Kelli Hall Jones, Sherri L Harris, Representative Ajay Pittman with the military jacket of Tuskegee Airmen Mr. Edward Woodard, Sr., Curtis Blunt, Karl Wilburn, Duboise Gooden, and Floyd Gordan.

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