A Century of Honor: Black History Month and the Tuskegee Legacy
Each February, we mark a profound milestone in the American story. This year signifies exactly 100 years since the inception of what we now know as Black History Month. What began as a visionary effort to recognize the integral role of African Americans in our national narrative has evolved over a century into a pillar of reflection, gratitude, and military honor.
Originally established in 1926 as "Negro History Week" by historian Carter G. Woodson, the observance was designed to reform an American education system that largely ignored or caricatured Black achievements. Woodson famously argued: "If a race has no history, if it has no worthwhile tradition, it becomes a negligible factor in the thought of the world."
Over the decades, the popularity of the week grew, fueled by the Civil Rights Movement of the 1960s. By 1976, the celebration was expanded to the entire month of February, officially recognized by President Gerald Ford, who urged Americans to "seize the opportunity to honor the too-often neglected accomplishments of Black Americans." Now, a century after Woodson’s first organized week of study, that small seed has grown into a global period of reflection and education.
The Vanishing Legacy of the Red Tails
At WeSalute, this centennial carries a special resonance. Black history and American military history are one and the same. For 100 years, this month has allowed us to honor the patriots who defended our freedoms abroad, even while fighting for their own right to equality here at home.
When we talk about military excellence, the Tuskegee Airmen stand as the ultimate standard. These "Red Tails" were pioneers who shattered the "color barrier" in the skies during World War II, proving that courage and skill know no racial bounds. Their record of over 150 Distinguished Flying Crosses helped pave the way for the full integration of the U.S. Armed Forces in 1948.
However, we are at a poignant crossroads. The living history of the Tuskegee Airmen is fading, and very few of these heroes remain with us today. Recently, we mourned the loss of Lt. Col. George Hardy, who passed away at the age of 100.
Lt. Col. Hardy was the embodiment of the "Triple Ace" of service, flying combat missions in World War II, Korea, and Vietnam. He lived through the very century of history we celebrate today — from the first organized history week in 1926 to seeing his own exploits recorded in the annals of American heroism.
Why We Salute
For the military community, Black History Month isn't just about the past; it’s about the values of duty, honor, and country. We salute the trailblazers like Lt. Col. Hardy who didn’t just witness history — they flew right through the middle of it.
As we look back on 100 years of this celebration, let’s commit to keeping the stories of the Tuskegee Airmen alive. Their grit in the face of adversity remains a guiding light for every member of our armed forces today.
