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Description
"...awarded 'to any person, while serving in any capacity with the Air Corps of the Army of the United States, including the National Guard and the Organized Reserves, or with the United States Navy, since April 6th, 1917, has distinguished, or who, after approval of this Act, distinguished himself by heroism or extraordinary achievement while participating in an aerial flight. The performance of the act of heroisme must be evidenced by voluntary action above and beyond the call of duty. The extraordinary achievement must have resulted in an accomplishment so exceptional and outstanding as to clearly set the individual apart from his comrades or from other persons in similar circumstances...'" Captain Samuel L. Washington enlisted in the Air Force in November 1942. He graduated with the 44-F pilot class from the Tuskegee program on June 27, 1944. He was assigned to the 99th squadron of the 332nd fighter group. As the group transitioned from P-40 fighters to the newer P-51 Mustangs, their aircraft was decorated with bright red spinners and tails and the squadron was nicknamed the Red-Tails. They were based in Italy and provided air support for bomber missions over Germany during the final stages of the World War II European theater in 1945.
Type
Image
Identifier
C036744A-D36D-4272-B68A-392574413354 2012-40-16
Subject
Awards Air pilots (LCSH) World War, 1939-1945 Soldiers United States. Army Air Forces. Fighter Group, 332nd African Americans Washington, Samuel L
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