Gen Daniel "Chappie" James Jr Chapter

This chapter is continuing the legacy of the Tuskegee Airmen by honoring our Airmen and working with our youth. Each year, we encourage local youth through our chapter’s three initiatives: Drone Exhibition, student scholarships, and by sponsoring programs through our partners at The 99th Squadron, Inc., each of which are explained below.

Our Drone Exhibition is a hands-on activity offered to the local public, often hosted by existing organizations who have students interested in STEM. It consists of a thorough review of regulations, pre-flight, an overview of the 3 primary flight control axis and altitude, and a competition that demonstrates teamwork.

In terms of scholarships, we typically award between $1,500 – $2,000 to a few students each year during a public ceremony and cover their costs for the annual Chappie James “Tuskegee Airmen Commemoration Day” celebration.

By sponsoring and participating in programs through our partners at The 99th Squadron, Inc. 501(c)(3), the chapter itself funded 4 pilot medical certificates, 10 discovery flights, and 5 admissions into existing aerospace programs/events including OBAP’s “ACE Academy”, the Cocoa Beach Airshow, and NASA’s “Max Power”.

We also support youth activities through existing organizations including Young Eagles (EAA), Girls in Aviation Day and events with the Infinity Aero Club. Here’s the general outcome thus far for students we’ve supported by the three aforementioned chapter initiatives:
● 70% of sponsored students applying to aviation-related training gain admission
● 90% of scholarship recipients complete their degrees or training programs
● 100% of students avoid delinquent behaviors, becoming responsible citizens