ORLANDO, Fla. — Orlando International Airport honors the contributions and sacrifices of the nation’s first African-American military pilots in a new community exhibit.
▶ WATCH CHANNEL 9 EYEWITNESS NEWS
The exhibit is presented in celebration of Black History Month and the state of Florida’s inaugural Tuskegee Airmen Commemoration Day.
“Honoring the legacy of the Tuskegee Airmen through this exhibition is a meaningful way to celebrate and recognize the contributions of these pioneering pilots,” said Kevin J. Thibault, CEO of the Greater Orlando Aviation Authority (GOAA).
Read: HBO announces an open casting call for It’s Florida, Man Season 2
Governor Ron DeSantis signed into law an annual holiday commemorating the sacrifices of the Tuskegee Airmen to be celebrated on the fourth Thursday of March.
Thibault continues, “By showcasing their remarkable story, we hope to not only educate and inspire travelers but also enrich their journey with a deeper appreciation of how the Tuskegee Airmen made history.”
Read: Flagler County sheriff welcomes new K-9 detective “Birdie”
At least four Tuskegee Airmen called Central Florida home, including:
Chief Master Sergeant Richard C. Hall, Jr. (1923 – 2021) Winter Park
Lt. Daniel K. Keel, Jr. (1922 – Present) Clermont
Lt. Col. Robert C. Hughes (1924 – 2022) Brevard County
Lt. Raymond Cassagnol (1920 – 2023) Seminole County
Read: These 9 local Winn-Dixies will convert to Aldi stores
Click here to download our free news, weather and smart TV apps. And click here to stream Channel 9 Eyewitness News live.
©2025 Cox Media Group
