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P-51C Tuskegee Airmen flew to Millington, TN on 22 April for a youth aviation career day for 5th through 8th grade students from urban Memphis. Over 900 students heard five to ten minute presentations from active duty Navy and Air Force aircrew personnel and the career opportunities available through the military services. A civilian helicopter pilot described his aviation life and described how the students could prepare themselves for such a career.

The students were treated to a special presentation by a World War II WASP (Women Air Service Pilot). These heroic women ferried aircraft overseas to the front lines, and flew test flights, maintenance flights, and performed other flight evaluations to ensure that combat pilots had good equipment. These extraordinary aviators made a significant contribution in defending American freedom.

Tuskegee Airmen pilot Don Hinz then gave a presentation about the historical accomplishments of the Tuskegee Airmen and a brief description of how the students could prepare themselves for entry into any industry, including aviation. It was a very special moment when Don introduced the three Tuskegee Airmen present and all 900 students gave the Airmen a standing ovation.

The students then wandered the air field to view static display aircraft ranging from a 1942 Cessna 195 to a modern Boeing transport jet and of course the P-51 Mustang Tuskegee Airmen. At events such as these, it is rewarding to see young students seriously interested in the history created by the Airmen, anxious to meet them and gratefully thanking them for their service to America.

Mission Accomplished!

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