Black soldiers have served in the US military since the Revolutionary War but in the 1940s most units were still segregated and all the officers were white. Black men, even ones who were already pilots, could not apply for flight training. That changed in 1941 when Tuskegee Institute was chosen to be the home of the newly established 99th Pursuit Squadron, an all black unit, still segregated but nonetheless military pilots and inline for promotions. Of the 996 pilots trained, 445 served overseas earning numerous awards for valor and performance. The museum, which is located in Hanger No.1, tells the story of the founding of the flight school and the training of the pilots. An additional visitor center has exhibits about individual pilots and a theater where historic films are shown. Unfortunately the visitor center is closed because of structural damage and a new one is not expected to be finished for about a year.
The museum is accessible. Park on the left side of the hanger for easy access to the sidewalk.
The parking area is large enough for all RVs. Museum
32.46009, -85.68649
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