Encounter with Tuskegee Airman left lasting impression
Ohio Tuskegee Airmen Day will be commemorated for the first time March 29.
The Tuskegee Airmen were the first African American fighter pilots to serve in the U.S. Army Air Corps. Overcoming the great barriers of segregation and discrimination, they became one of the best fighting groups in the history of World War II.
Many years ago, my wife and I had the privilege of befriending a Tuskegee Airman, Major Herndon “Don” Cummings. Major Cummings was exceptional in personality and ability to weave engrossing recounts of his experiences during the war. We met Major Cummings when we joined a team to help with the maintenance and refurbishment of his home with a program known as Rebuilding Together. Throughout the day while we were painting, we learned about the Tuskegee Airmen. Under the leadership of Colonel Benjamin O. Davis Jr., the Tuskegee Airmen gained their reputation as fierce fighters as they protected bombing missions against Germany, earning the admiration of the Army Air Force bombers.
Ultimately, they were recognized with 95 Distinguished Flying Crosses, 14 Bronze Stars and eight Purple Hearts for their fearlessness in the skies.
Major Cummings moved to Columbus when the Tuskegee Airmen posted to Ohio at Lockbourne Air Force Base, now known as Rickenbacker International Airport. When they arrived, there was a grand parade of African Americans in support of the 477th Bomber Group. After serving our country, many Tuskegee Airmen raised families here.
Over the course of the weekend, Major Cummings told us about being a pilot and what it was like living in the United States after his service in World War II. Major Cummings related how Eleanor Roosevelt played a crucial role in the desegregation of the U.S Army, declaring: “What a lot we must do to make our war a real victory for democracy.” Ultimately, the military was desegregated through the efforts of Mrs. Roosevelt and President Truman.
As the weekend wound down, the last remaining project was the installation of a flagpole. After pouring the concrete and installing the pole, we presented Major Cummings with the U.S. flag, then we hoisted it up to the top of the newly installed flagpole. We still have his thank you note. It says:
I will always remember and appreciate the wonderful work you did in repairing, refurbishing and beautifying my home and property. It gives me a daily lift to see and feel the difference. I also enjoyed the warm, friendly conversations with all of you and your helpers. Thank you for the birthday party and the delicious American flag birthday cake . ... I wish all of you the best for the future.
To further honor the legacy of the Tuskegee Airmen, learn more about these heroes. In Ohio, there are historical markers and exhibits at the Wright Patterson Air Force Base Museum, Don Scott Field, Rickenbacker International Airport, the John Glenn Columbus International Airport and Oberlin. Additionally, movies like “The Tuskegee Airmen” and “Red Tails” give us a glimpse into the lives of these men.
Major Cummings passed away on July 2, 2009, and was honored to attend and be recognized during the inauguration of President Obama.
Stu Harris is an attorney at Nationwide Insurance and serves on the Dublin School Board.