Colorado University Athletics
CU Joins Pac-12 In Honoring Tuskegee Airmen Saturday
November 10, 2011 | Football
This Veterans Day, as the nation honors the sacrifice and heroism that have made our freedoms possible, the Pac-12 Conference will salute the bravery and accomplishments of the Tuskegee Airmen on the 70th anniversary of their service.
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The Tuskegee Airmen
The Tuskegee Airmen were America's first black military pilots. In 1941, African American pilots and support personnel began training at the Tuskegee Institute. Prejudice within the military caused many to believe this program would end in failure and that these men were inferior because of their race. Although they had to make do with outdated equipment and the relentless scrutiny of government officials, these highly educated young men excelled, shattering all expectations.
In World War II, these brave men would do battle with the most advanced aviation engineering as they flew against the German Luftwaffe. The Tuskegee Airmen became one of the most decorated and successful units in the war.
The Tuskegee Airmen serve as role models and heroes for Americans of all races. They faced the bitter reality of racism and rose above it. They embody the pursuit of uncompromising excellence. They sacrificed their own lives in service to their country proving that there is no greater achievement than to serve selflessly and with honor.
Pac-12 Veterans Day Weekend Salute
Several Pac-12 Conference football games on November 12, 2011 will honor the 70th anniversary of the founding of the Tuskegee Airmen.
At many of the Pac-12 Veterans Day Weekend games, Tuskegee Airmen will be honored in pre-game ceremonies while coaches will wear a commemorative Tuskegee Airmen patch, with school bands and spirit squads donning a special Tuskegee Airmen logo pin. In addition, several conference schools will distribute Tuskegee Airmen logo stickers to fans attending the game.
Throughout the games, announcers will recount the historic story and achievements of the Tuskegee Airmen. Video tributes to the Tuskegee Airmen will appear on the stadium screens.
