Press Releases

Marking Five Decades of Excellence: Tuskegee Airmen Unite for Landmark Event in New Orleans

“In Honor of the 477th Bombardment Group”

NEW ORLEANS – August 15, 2025 – A historic milestone in the journey of aviation and civil rights will be
celebrated as Tuskegee Airmen Inc. (TAI) hosts its 2025 National Convention and Annual Business Meeting from August 20-23 at The Higgins Hotel New Orleans, Curio Collection by Hilton in New Orleans. This landmark event, held in partnership with the National WWII Museum, commemorates the organization’s remarkable 50th anniversary.

“This convention is not merely a gathering; it’s a testament to five decades of dedication toward inspiring future generations,” said 1st Vice President Angela Holmes. “In celebrating this legacy in New Orleans, we honor both our history and our ongoing mission.” Several DOTA, along with their spouses and family members, are planning to attend the convention.

The four-day convention promises an engaging lineup of events designed to educate attendees about the pioneering achievements of the Tuskegee Airmen while also highlighting opportunities within aviation, aerospace, and STEAM fields for today’s youth. Attendees can look forward to keynote speeches from esteemed leaders in these industries alongside exhibits that delve into both past accomplishments and future possibilities. The convention schedule includes keynote addresses from Marc Morial, President of the National Urban League and former New Orleans mayor; Air Force Brig. Gen. (Retired) Robert D. Bowie, former Special Assistant to Director Air National Guard; Capt. Theresa Claiborne, U.S. Air Force’s first Black woman pilot and retired pilot with United Airlines.

The 477th Bombardment Group, though not deployed in combat during World War II, played a crucial role in the fight against racial segregation within the U.S. military. Its members’ courageous stand against discriminatory practices at Freeman Field, known as the Freeman Field Mutiny, significantly contributed to the desegregation of the armed forces. The group’s actions, along with the broader efforts of the Tuskegee Airmen, paved the way for future civil rights advancements.

“Every corner turned by these Airmen paved a new path toward excellence,” said President Leon Butler. “Their impact transcends beyond race or profession—it stands as an emblematic beacon guiding countless aspiring minds towards boundless horizons.” As TAI marks its golden jubilee against one of America’s most culturally rich backdrops—New Orleans—the venue itself speaks volumes about triumph over adversity through unity. The Higgins Hotel sits adjacent to The National WWII Museum, a fitting location to explore and learn more about those who served valiantly during World War II.

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Tuskegee Airmen, Inc. Appoints New Director Of Media Relations

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE                                                                                             

April 1, 2025

TUSKEGEE, Ala. – The Tuskegee Airmen, Inc. is pleased to announce the appointment of Dawn Onley as the organization’s Director of Media Relations. Dawn is a leading public relations and media strategist with experience supporting businesses, federal agencies and nonprofits.

Leon Butler, National President of Tuskegee Airmen, Inc. (TAI), said he looks forward to working with Dawn to elevate the visibility of the Tuskegee Airmen’s legacy and to promote STEM education among young people.

“We are confident that Dawn’s strategic approach and passion for storytelling will help us effectively communicate the remarkable history and achievements of the Tuskegee Airmen to a wider audience,” Butler said. “Dawn’s role in shaping our narrative and engaging with the media is crucial. We look forward to her leadership in amplifying our message, ensuring that the service and sacrifices of these American heroes are never forgotten.”

Onley is an award-winning journalist who has written for large, daily newspapers, including The Star-Ledger of Newark, New Jersey, where she was once part of a team nominated for a Pulitzer Prize. She once served as writer and editor of two military technology magazines, Defense Systems and Military Logistics Forum, and has also written for digital sites covering news pertinent to the African American community, including The Grio, Black Enterprise and BET.

“I’ve long admired the courage and sacrifice of the Tuskegee Airmen who risked their lives amid segregation to escort bombers during World War II, and what a success they were! They had one of the lowest loss records of all of the escort fighter groups,” Onley said. “I feel such a sense of gratitude and purpose as the Director of Media Relations. I will work hard to ensure that the Tuskegee Airmen are never erased from the history books and that their legacy lives on with today’s youth who may be inspired by their story to attend flight school or another STEM vocation. I am wholly honored.”