Last Surviving Tuskegee Airman Lt. Col. George Hardy Dies at 100
Lt. Col. George Hardy (Ret.), one of the last surviving Tuskegee Airmen who flew combat missions during World War II, has passed away at the age of 100 in Sarasota, Florida. Hardy was a pioneer and a symbol of courage in the face of racial adversity, and served in the military for multiple wars.
A Distinguished Life of Service
Born on June 8, 1925, in Philadelphia, George Hardy became one of the first Black military pilots at just 19 years old. He flew 21 combat missions in World War II, and continued his service through the Korean and Vietnam wars, accumulating a total of 136 combat missions. Hardy often reflected on the challenges and triumphs of his journey.
"Well, Tuskegee Airmen had special circumstances. Racial problems were significant… during World War II, and actually, the War Department felt that we could not be pilots."
Overcoming Racial Barriers
The Tuskegee Airmen faced significant racial discrimination during World War II. A 1925 Army War College report propagated racist beliefs that questioned the capabilities of Black servicemen. Despite these hurdles, Hardy and his fellow airmen disproved these theories through their exemplary service.
The adversity was apparent even getting to training. Hardy recalled the segregation and discrimination he experienced traveling south to Keesler Field for basic training and later to the Tuskegee Institute.
Legacy and Remembrance
Well into his late 90s, Hardy remained dedicated to sharing the legacy of the Tuskegee Airmen, emphasizing the need for greater awareness of their history. Leon Butler Jr., president of Tuskegee Airmen, Inc., honored Hardy as a giant and an American hero, recognizing his significant contributions to the nation.
"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."
The Tuskegee Airmen: A Legacy of Valor
Around 16,000 Tuskegee Airmen served in the U.S. Army Air Corps from 1941 to 1946 at the Tuskegee Army Airfield in Alabama, with only 992 being trained as pilots. Butler emphasized that many original Tuskegee Airmen served in essential support roles. With Hardy’s passing, only a handful of Tuskegee Airmen remain.
Challenges to the Legacy
Recently, the legacy of the Tuskegee Airmen faced challenges when the Air Force removed training courses featuring videos of them amidst a push to eliminate diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives. Following public outcry, those materials were reinstated, marking a victory for preserving this vital part of American history.
A Lasting Impact
Hardy never shied away from discussing the challenges of racism and the ongoing struggle for equality. Even while fighting for freedom in a country where he faced discrimination, he said, “Well, the thing is it’s our country too, so we’ve got to work for our country no matter what the situation.” His legacy as a pioneer in aviation and civil rights remains an integral part of American history. He lived in Sarasota since 2003 and often spoke to children. He retired from the U.S. Air Force as a lieutenant colonel.
