MILFORD, Del. — The Milford Museum’s American History Series will celebrate Black History Month with a special program about the Tuskegee Airmen, presented by Andre Swygert. The event will take place on Saturday, Feb. 8, at 1 p.m. at the Milford Public Library.
The program will delve into the history of the Tuskegee Airmen, focusing on the individuals who played critical roles in the success of this pioneering group of Black aviators during World War II. While many people know of the Tuskegee Airmen as a whole, the Milford Museum says the event will shine a spotlight on the personal stories of aviators, educators, politicians and military personnel who helped demonstrate that African Americans could excel in flying and combat roles.
Swygert will also highlight selected individuals who contributed significantly to the unit’s wartime success and the societal changes that followed their service. The event promises to explore not just their military achievements, but also their enduring impact on racial equality in the military and beyond.
Andre Swygert, a Wilmington resident and retired aerospace and defense professional, is an expert on the Tuskegee Airmen and a dedicated historian for the John H. Porter – First State Chapter of Tuskegee Airmen, Inc., based in Dover. Swygert has spent years researching and writing about aviation history and technology, with works published in outlets such as Air & Space Smithsonian magazine. His lifelong passion for aviation and the Tuskegee Airmen inspired his involvement in preserving their legacy.
A presentation about the Tuskegee Airmen and their contributions to America was presented to a room full of people. Every seat was filled which left standing room only.
Thomas Summers, Director of the Milford Museum, shared why it was important to talk about this part of history.
"We think the Tuskegee Airmen is really an important part of American history, and it's an important part of World War Two," said Summers.
Andre Swygert presented the slideshow to the room full of people. Swygert is the Chapter Secretary for the John H. Porter – First State Chapter of Tuskegee Airmen, Inc. He says the Tuskegee Airmen proved points then that are still important today.
"I think these guys in particular really showed that if you can do the work and demonstrate that, sooner or later you're going to break down barriers that are there. There are still barriers today and we need to be inspired across the board to make sure that we don't forget what these guys did," Swygert shared.
President of the John H. Porter – First State Chapter of Tuskegee Airmen, Inc., Fred Armstrong, was personally touched by the Tuskegee Airmen because he had the privilege of meeting them.
Including John H. Porter, who was one of the Airmen. Porter flew 40 combat missions and ended up being stationed at Dover Air Force Base until his passing in 1966.
He was also Armstrong's neighbor. Armstrong encourages people to learn more about their history.
