Benjamin O Davis Jr. (Dec 1912-Jul 2002) was the first African American to attain the rank of General Officer in the US Air Force. He served as the commander of the 332nd Fighter Group during WWII (Tuskeegee Airmen). General Davis became determined to become a pilot when he went on a flight at the age of 14. He entered West Point Military Academy in 1932 and was given the silent treatment by his classmates. He ate alone and never had a roommate during his time at West Point. This treatment only served to strengthen his determination to meet his goals.
He initially began service with the US Army as an Infantry lieutenant. He had applied for the Army Air Corps but was not accepted because they did not allow blacks at that time. He was assigned to teach military tactics at Tuskeegee University in Alabama which put him in the right place when the 332nd was initially formed. He flew over 60 sorties during the war and had the honor of commanding a unit which never lost a bomber that it escoted to enemy fighters. We do all that we can to honor every great soldier who has served our country with our commemorative service rings. We want you all to know that we are proud of you.
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