Washington, DC  -  The Tuskegee Airmen were patriotic African Americans who sacrificed to serve their country overseas despite the prejudices they faced at home, Congressman Mike Rogers said today, as the House passed his resolution honoring the World War II fighter pilots for their bravery and sacrifices.

‘It is the sense of Congress that the United States Air Force should continue to honor and learn from the example provided by the Tuskegee Airmen as it faces the challenges of the 21st century and the war on terror,’ read H. Con. Res. 26, Rogers’ bill which honors the Airmen. The resolution passed unanimously 423-0.

“No one resolution could ever fully express the appreciation and respect we have for these men,” Rogers said. “The story of the Tuskegee Airmen is one of pride and determination, skill and leadership, and will hopefully continue to inspire others for generations to come.”

Rogers said today’s resolution was just one way he is working to memorialize the Airmen. In a few weeks, construction on a multi-million dollar National Park Service memorial in Macon County, Alabama, should commence, and should help preserve and enhance the legacy of the Tuskegee Airmen for today’s younger generations. Rogers said he has helped secure $1.5 million for the project to date.

“East Alabama has a rich history of prominent African Americans, like the Tuskegee Airmen, who have done so much to enhance the lives of all Americans,” he added. “As our nation continues to fight for our freedoms abroad, I hope all Americans will continue to look to the Airmen as role models, and leaders who exemplify the true strength and courage of our democracy.”