Governor Spanberger Honors Tuskegee Airmen Commemoration Day

Proclamation recognizes the service and impact of the pioneering African American aviators of World War II.

Mar. 27, 2026 at 9:34am

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Governor Abigail Spanberger of Virginia issued a proclamation recognizing March 26, 2026 as Tuskegee Airmen Commemoration Day. The proclamation honors the accomplishments, service, and lasting impact of the more than 16,000 brave men and women who made up the Tuskegee Airmen, the first African American military aviators in the United States.

Why it matters

The Tuskegee Airmen played a pivotal role in World War II, flying over 15,000 missions and helping turn the tide of the war. Their determination and achievements also paved the way for the desegregation of the U.S. military, ensuring that all Americans receive the same dignity and respect when answering the call to serve.

The details

In her proclamation, Governor Spanberger highlighted the Tuskegee Airmen's extraordinary accomplishments, including pilots, navigators, maintenance crews, and others who had roots in Virginia. The proclamation celebrates the service and sacrifice of these pioneering aviators and their lasting impact on the nation.

  • Governor Spanberger issued the proclamation on March 27, 2026.
  • The proclamation recognizes March 26, 2026 as Tuskegee Airmen Commemoration Day.

The players

Governor Abigail Spanberger

The current governor of Virginia who issued the proclamation honoring the Tuskegee Airmen.

Tuskegee Airmen

The more than 16,000 brave men and women who made up the first African American military aviators in the United States, serving with distinction during World War II.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“Today, we honor the service, sacrifice, and valor of the Tuskegee Airmen — the first African American military aviators in the United States. During World War II, the men and women of the Tuskegee Airmen flew and supported more than 15,000 missions over North Africa and Europe, accomplishing extraordinary achievements as America turned the tide of the war.”

— Governor Abigail Spanberger

“Through their determination, Tuskegee Airmen paved a path for the desegregation of the U.S. military and helped guarantee that all Americans who answer the call receive the same dignity and respect.”

— Governor Abigail Spanberger

What’s next

The proclamation will be officially presented to Tuskegee Airmen veterans and their families during a ceremony at the Virginia War Memorial on March 26, 2026.

The takeaway

The Tuskegee Airmen's pioneering service and achievements during World War II not only helped turn the tide of the war, but also paved the way for the desegregation of the U.S. military, ensuring that all Americans who serve their country are treated with the same dignity and respect.