The true story of the Tuskegee Airmen is far broader
than one of just aviation and the first American Black Military Pilots and
Crewmen to serve during WWII. Their story and contributions were not recognized
for decades, until the 1995 HBO movie release "The Tuskegee Airmen" presented
their inspiring story of unwavering human spirit, courage and enduring
determination. The Quest To Be The Best. Not only could black men become pilots,
but they were arguably the most skilled aviators of World War II.
Since the film's release there has been a wide misunderstanding that all
Tuskegee Airmen flew pursuit and escort missions in Red-Tailed P-51 Mustangs in
WWII. Not the case. Only a fraction of these airmen actually flew fighter
aircraft, including the P-40, P-47 and P-39. The vast majority of Tuskegee
Airmen were assigned to other duties such as ground personnel, nurses, mechanics
and instructors. Many also served in the 477th Bombardment Group as navigators,
bombardiers, pilots and co-pilots on the B-25 Mitchell.
Likewise,
after the 1986 Hollywood release "Top Gun," there has been a wide misconception
that this country's first Top Gun Program was developed by the Navy in the
1980's, competing in F-14 Tomcats. Again, not the case. In fact, the military's
first "Top Gun" gunnery meet originated decades before and was established by
the newly formed Unites States Air Force. What is also virtually unknown, is
that Tuskegee Airmen, Captain Alva Temple, 1st Lieutenant Harry Stewart, 1st
Lieutenant James H Harvey III and alternate pilot Halbert Alexander, competing
in their P-47N Thunderbolts, would go on to win the USAF very "First Top Gun"
Weapons Meet (also known as "William Tell" and "Gunsmoke") in May of 1949, at
what would later become Nellis AFB. Accolades go to our Maintenance Personnel,
because without them the missions could not have been flown with success. They
were the Best in the USAF. A special thank you is extended to my aircraft crew
chief (then Staff Sergeant) Buford Johnson.
It would be Lt. Col Harvey's natural abilities as a top aviator that would
later distinguish him as the military's "First Black" Jet Fighter Pilot to fly
missions over Korean Airspace. This website will present the inspiring story of
James H Harvey III, the Tuskegee Airmen and the First Top Gun competition along
with pages of aviation history and related links. This is the only source
available to purchase collectible items commemorating the Tuskegee Airmen and
their victory at the 1949 USAF Top Gun weapons meet. We welcome you to "Tuskegee
Top Gun."
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