BREAKING NEWS: Lt. Col. George Hardy, a celebrated Tuskegee Airman and one of the last surviving members of America’s first Black military pilots, has died at the age of 100. His passing marks a significant loss for the legacy of the Tuskegee Airmen, who fought valiantly in World War II and beyond.
Hardy, born in Philadelphia in 1925, served his country with honor, becoming the youngest Red Tail fighter pilot to fly a combat mission over Europe at just 19 years old. His service included completing 21 missions over Germany during World War II, 45 missions in the Korean War, and 70 missions in the Vietnam War.
The Tuskegee Airmen, Inc. expressed their sorrow in an official statement: “His legacy is one of courage, resilience, tremendous skill, and dogged perseverance against racism, prejudice, and other evils. We are forever grateful for his sacrifice and will hold dear to his memory.”
In 1944, Hardy joined the U.S. Army Air Forces, training at Tuskegee Army Air Field and earning his commission as a Second Lieutenant. By early 1945, he was deployed to Italy with the distinguished 99th Fighter Squadron, part of the 332nd Fighter Group.
Hardy’s dedication to aviation did not end with the Vietnam War. After retiring as a lieutenant colonel in 1971, he became a passionate advocate for the Tuskegee Airmen’s story, speaking to students across the nation and inspiring new generations.
His death leaves only 13 documented original Tuskegee Airmen alive today, highlighting the urgency of preserving their remarkable history. The Tuskegee Airmen received the Congressional Gold Medal in 2007, and Hardy was honored with the National WWII Museum’s American Spirit Award in 2024.
As we remember Lt. Col. Hardy, we reflect on his words: “When I think about the fellas who flew before me and with me at Tuskegee, and the fact that we did prove that we could do anything that anyone else could do, and it’s paid off today… it’s hard to believe that I’m here receiving this award—with them.”
His legacy will continue to inspire and educate, and his contributions to both military aviation and civil rights will not be forgotten.
Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story.
