The world has lost a true hero with the passing of Lt. Col. Harry Stewart Jr., a decorated combat pilot and one of the original Tuskegee Airmen. Stewart died at the age of 100 on Sunday at his home in Bloomfield Hills, Michigan. He leaves behind an extraordinary legacy that has not only shaped the history of American aviation but also stood as a powerful symbol of racial progress and determination in the face of adversity.
Stewart was among the elite group of Black pilots trained in the 1940s at the Tuskegee Army Airfield in Alabama, which became a training ground for Black men in an era when racial segregation was rampant. These men, often referred to as the Tuskegee Airmen, were pioneers, breaking down barriers and proving themselves in combat during World War II. Their contributions changed the course of history, earning them the respect and admiration they deserved after a long battle for recognition.
Born in Newport News, Virginia, Stewart’s passion for aviation began at an early age. His parents recounted how he would lie in his crib outdoors, watching planes pass overhead, captivated by the marvel of flight. As he grew older, Stewart’s fascination with aviation deepened. When the United States entered World War II, he was drafted into the military and became one of the first Black pilots to earn his wings at the Tuskegee Army Airfield. Stewart’s path to becoming a Tuskegee Airman was shaped by his unrelenting drive and desire to fly, despite the racial prejudice of the time.
During World War II, Stewart flew escort missions, defending U.S. bombers as they carried out strategic raids over Nazi-occupied Europe. He was part of the 332nd Fighter Group, often referred to as the “Red Tails” due to the distinctive red markings on their planes. In the face of discrimination, these brave men excelled in combat, earning the admiration of their peers. Stewart’s skill in the cockpit and his courageous actions during the war earned him the Distinguished Flying Cross, one of the highest military honors. His combat achievements include shooting down three enemy aircraft in a single day, a rare and extraordinary feat.
The Tuskegee Airmen were instrumental in challenging the racial discrimination that pervaded the military at the time. Their courage and professionalism in the face of prejudice not only helped secure Allied victories but also paved the way for the eventual integration of the U.S. military. Stewart’s service to his country helped dismantle the barriers of segregation, and he was part of a larger movement that altered the fabric of American society.
In recognition of their incredible achievements, the Tuskegee Airmen were awarded the Congressional Gold Medal in 2007. This prestigious honor, presented to the surviving members of the group, was a long-overdue acknowledgment of their invaluable contributions to the nation’s war effort and to the fight for racial equality. Stewart’s involvement in the recognition and advocacy for his fellow Airmen never stopped. In 2019, he published his memoir, Soaring to Glory: A Tuskegee Airman’s Firsthand Account of World War II, which provided a powerful personal account of his experiences during the war. The memoir offers insight into the daily struggles and triumphs of the Tuskegee Airmen, providing future generations with an invaluable historical record of their experiences.
Stewart’s legacy extends far beyond his military service. After the war, he earned a mechanical engineering degree from New York University and went on to have a successful career in the private sector. In 1976, he relocated to metro Detroit, where he worked for ANR Pipeline Co., a Detroit-based oil and gas consortium, eventually retiring as a vice president. His post-war career in the engineering field was marked by his professionalism and expertise, further solidifying his status as a trailblazer in both aviation and business.
However, even in retirement, Stewart never stopped advocating for the Tuskegee Airmen and their legacy. He played an essential role in ensuring that their story was not forgotten, speaking at various events and supporting efforts to secure recognition and honor for the group. Stewart was a passionate advocate for racial progress and equality, and he used his platform to promote these causes long after the war ended. In 2024, the National WWII Museum honored the Tuskegee Airmen with the American Spirit Award, the institution’s highest honor, recognizing their extraordinary accomplishments in the face of discrimination.
Stewart’s passing has left a deep void in the hearts of many, but his legacy continues to inspire. “Harry Stewart was a kind man of profound character and accomplishment,” said Brian Smith, president and CEO of the Tuskegee Airmen National Historical Museum. “He had a distinguished career of service that continued long after fighting for our country in World War II.” Stewart’s contributions to both aviation and the fight for racial equality have shaped the world as we know it today. His courage, resilience, and advocacy have made a lasting impact that will echo for generations to come.
As we remember the life and legacy of Lt. Col. Harry Stewart Jr., it is essential to reflect on the importance of perseverance, equality, and the power of individuals to change the world. Stewart’s legacy is a reminder that, regardless of the obstacles one faces, the pursuit of justice and the fight for freedom are causes worth dedicating one’s life to.
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