Learn About the Tuskegee Airmen
Lesson plans and activities are divided into sections for grade levels 4 and 8. Each activity worksheet is available in both black and white or colored versions.
Bringing the Heroes of Yesterday to the Students of Today…
This website offers lesson plans and activities to help bring the courageous contributions and heroic story of the Tuskegee Airmen to West Virginia students.
Why Teach About the Tuskegee Airmen?
West Virginia played an integral role in the training and support of the Tuskegee Airmen long before they accepted their challenging missions during World War II. Originally an “experiment” to train black aviators, the Tuskegee Airmen became one of the most celebrated squadrons in history. They earned over 100 Flying Crosses, 14 Bronze Star Medals, eight Purple Hearts, a Silver Star, Legion of Merit and three Presidential Unit Citations. They were also awarded the Congressional Medal of Honor by then-President George W. Bush.
Unmatched by Any Other Flight Squadron
The Tuskegee Airmen never lost a plane to combat – a feat unrivaled by any other flight squadron and a testament to their uncompromising sacrifice and heroism. In addition to attacking enemy planes in the air, the Tuskegee Airmen broke down barriers of prejudice and racism throughout the country. In a time when no one believed black men could fly, the Tuskegee Airmen rose to the challenge and paved the way for military desegregation.
Diversity in the Classroom
Teaching students about West Virginia history and the impact the Tuskegee Airmen had on our nation’s victory is a perfect example of how commitment and courage can overcome even the harshest obstacles. By using the instructional materials provided on this website, you’ll not only be teaching your students an important history lesson, but you’ll also be instructing them on the values of diversity, teamwork and determination.
History & Lesson Plans
History of the Tuskegee Airmen
As told by Elaine A. Cheesman, Ph.D. – University of Colorado at Colorado Springs – Freedom’s Song The Tuskegee Airmen were the first African Americans to serve in the U.S.
Tuskegee Airmen – WVSU Connection
West Virginia State University’s Aviation Program and Its Contribution to the Tuskegee Airmen By: Charles T. Ledbetter, Ph.D.WVSU Professor of Education, Retired(Lt. Colonel, U.S. Army, Retired) In the late 1930s the
Tuskegee Teaching Activities by Grade
Tuskegee Airmen Teaching Activities for Grades 4 and 8 Please choose the appropriate grade level by clicking below or view games and writing assignments appropriate for all grades. 4th Grade
Credits and Information
This website was made possible and sponsored by the West Virginia Humanities Council as well as the West Virginia History and Cultural Committee and West Virginia State University.
Tuskegee Airmen plane graphic photo by Brian Silcox
Tuskegee History segment written by Elaine A. Cheesman, Ph.D. – University of Colorado at Colorado Springs
Lesson plans and activities collected / created by the students of Dr. T. Ford-Ahmed at West Virginia State University
Special Thanks to the Red Wing Project and Maxwell Airforce Base for photos of the Tuskegee Airmen and their aircraft.