The Tuskegee Airmen were African American pilots, bombardiers, navigators, and support personnel trained during World War II. The fighter pilots of the 99th Fighter Squadron and the 332nd Fighter Group of the U.S. Army Air Corps, led by Colonel Benjamin O. Davis Jr.
During WWII, they distinguished themselves by flying combat missions in North Africa, the Mediterranean, and the European Theaters. The 477th Bombardment Group (Medium} was also activated during the war and was scheduled to fight in the Pacific Theater, but the war ended before it could be deployed.
Tuskegee Airmen Inc. (TAI) is a non-profit organization founded in 1972 to preserve the history of African American Fighter Pilots’ accomplishments during WWII and inspire youth to pursue careers in aviation, engineering technology, and aerospace. The organization awards scholarships every year to deserving high school seniors for their college education.
There are 50 individually chartered chapters of TAI. Two chapters are located in South Carolina. The Spann Watson Chapter of TAI is located in Columbia, SC. It is named in honor of Lieutenant Colonel Spann Watson, a native of Johnston, SC. The Hiram Mann chapter is located in Walterboro, SC. The charter for the Spann Watson was approved on February 12, 2000.
The purpose of the Spann Watson Chapter is to:
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Bring together in a spirit of fellowship and goodwill those who share in the aspirations of the men and women who pioneered in military aviation and the Tuskegee Army Airfield of the U.S. Army Air Corps during WWII.
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Foster recognition and preserve the history of African American achievements in aviation.
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Inspire and motivate young men and women towards careers in aviation, engineering technology, and aerospace.
Members of the Spann Watson Chapter are active during the entire year, visiting schools, Churches, civic groups, corporations, and other organizations to make the population aware of African American accomplishments in aviation history and inspire young people to continue their education and seek opportunities in technology. While the national organization awards scholarships, the Spann Watson chapter awards tuition assistance to high school seniors who submit their applications through the chapter.
All meetings are by Zoom. The Spann Chapter members need your help to keep their legacy alive. For more information, email Larry at la280z78@gmail.com.
