The Tuskegee Airmen flew solo for their annual convention one last time this year. Next year, The Tuskegee Airmen, Inc., will join the International Black Aerospace Council for their convention. The original Tuskegee Airmen are getting more and more frail. By joining ranks, they will be more visible to a wider audience, making it easier to continue their mission of “mentoring black children and encouraging them to seek careers in aviation.” Retired Major William Watkins “looked at the young military officers gathered around him and said if he could succeed during World War II when soldiers were ushered in and out through the back door, they could make it even further.”

One quote from the article caught my eye, “Today, there are fewer than 300 African-American pilots in the U.S. Air Force, said Spooner, whose father-in-law was an airman.” I can’t verify if this number is factual, but my perception from looking around my office and the offices I have visited throughout my commissioned career is that it’s true–and not just for pilots. We don’t have a fair representation of non-white officers in our Air Force.

If you’re a college student or recent college graduate reading this, consider being a part of changing that. When you talk to a recruiter, if you’re a student, find an ROTC detachment and talk to them. If you’ve graduated, make sure you talk to an OTS Recruiter (they’re different–if you have a college education, use it and get compensated for it as an officer). If you’re in high school planning your future, consider the Academy or ROTC. It’ll be worth your while.