SPEAKIN’ OUT NEWS
WASHINGTON — On Veterans Day, Alabama’s entire U.S. House delegation stood together in a rare show of unity to honor the legacy of the Tuskegee Airmen, the pioneering African American pilots whose courage helped change both the U.S. military and the nation itself.
The delegation announced its support for a bipartisan bill sponsored by Congressman Shomari Figures (D-Mobile) to rename the Tuskegee Post Office at 401 North Elm Street as the “Tuskegee Airmen Memorial Post Office.”
“Designating the Tuskegee Post Office as the Tuskegee Airmen Memorial Post Office is a meaningful way to honor the legacy of these trailblazing heroes,” Figures said. “I’m proud to do this on my first Veterans Day with the full support of Alabama’s congressional delegation.”
The Tuskegee Airmen, often called the “Red Tails,” were the first Black military pilots in U.S. history. Trained at Tuskegee Army Airfield, they served in the segregated 332nd Fighter Group, earning distinction for their extraordinary discipline and skill during World War II. Their bomber escort unit recorded one of the lowest loss rates of the war and helped pave the way for desegregation in the armed forces.
Figures’ bill has the full support of Reps. Terri Sewell (D-Birmingham), Barry Moore (R-Enterprise), Mike Rogers (R-Saks), Robert Aderholt (R-Haleyville), Dale Strong (R-Huntsville), and Gary Palmer (R-Birmingham).
“The Tuskegee Airmen not only broke barriers in our armed forces but also inspired generations of Americans to serve with courage, integrity, and pride,” Figures said. “This recognition ensures that their sacrifice, bravery, and historic contributions to our nation will never be forgotten.”
The measure is also backed by Tuskegee Airmen, Inc., the national organization preserving the group’s history. It has been referred to the House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform.
The Airmen’s legacy made headlines again earlier in President Donald Trump’s second term, when the Air Force briefly removed training videos about the Tuskegee Airmen to comply with a federal ban on diversity, equity, and inclusion programs. Following backlash — including from Alabama lawmakers — the decision was reversed.
If passed, the designation will stand as a permanent reminder of the courage of the Black pilots who flew when their nation still denied them equality — and who helped redefine what patriotism looks like in America.