99th Tactical Fighter Squadron

• First African American Fighter Squadron: The 99th Tactical Fighter Squadron, originally known as the 99th Pursuit Squadron, was the first African American fighter squadron in the United States Armed Forces. • Tuskegee Airmen: The squadron was famously known as part of the Tuskegee Airmen, the pioneering group of Black military pilots trained at Tuskegee Army Airfield in Alabama during World War II. • Activated in 1941: The squadron was activated on March 22, 1941, at Chanute Field, Illinois, before moving to Tuskegee for pilot training. • Combat Debut in North Africa: The 99th saw its first combat in North Africa in April 1943, flying missions from Tunisia against Axis forces. • Distinguished Unit Citation: The unit earned a Distinguished Unit Citation (now known as the Presidential Unit Citation) for its performance during operations over Sicily and Italy in 1943. • “Red Tails” Nickname: The squadron’s aircraft were famously marked with red tails, a distinctive feature that led to the nickname “Red Tails.” • Dogfight Over Pantelleria: On June 9, 1943, the 99th shot down enemy aircraft over Pantelleria, Italy, proving their combat effectiveness and silencing critics of their abilities. • Integration into the 332nd Fighter Group: In July 1944, the 99th was assigned to the all-Black 332nd Fighter Group, flying bomber escort and ground attack missions across Europe. • Notable Pilots: Notable members included Benjamin O. Davis Jr., who became the first African American general in the U.S. Air Force, and Lee Archer, a credited ace. • Legacy and Honors: The 99th’s legacy is celebrated today as a major milestone in the desegregation of the U.S. military and is honored in museums, films, and memorials across the nation.