WASHINGTON, D.C. - Today, Congressman Jon Porter (R-NV) honored a group of men who served our country with honor and bravery.
 
“It is appropriate during African American History Month to honor a courageous group of men who defied both fascism abroad and racism at home while establishing a record as one of the most successful fighting units in American history,” said Rep. Porter.
 
Last year, Congressman Porter sponsored a resolution in the U.S. House of Representatives honoring the Tuskegee Airman, and this year was honored to co-sponsor, and once again take part in recognizing these brave Americans.
 
The Tuskegee Airmen were a group of dedicated and determined young men who enlisted to become America’s first African-American airmen during World War Two. These airmen were trained at Tuskegee Army Air Field in Tuskegee, Alabama beginning in 1941.  Last year, Rep. Porter had the opportunity to meet with Mr. George Sherman, a former Tuskegee Airman that currently resides in Las Vegas, NV.  “I was privileged to hear first hand accounts and see photos that provided a glimpse of what it must have been like to be a Tuskegee Airman,” Rep. Porter recalled on the floor of the House of Representatives.
 
“As our nation engages in combating terrorism around the world, we rely upon the global reach and presence provided by our Air Force. The example set by the Tuskegee Airmen encouraged millions of Americans of every race to pursue careers in air and space technology. The Tuskegee Airmen proved that skill and determination, not skin color, are the determining factors in aviation.  We are forever indebted to those men who silently risked their lives to protect a country that, at the time, did not necessarily appreciate, nor recognize, their brave sacrifice,” he said.

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