Tuskegee Airmen Tuition Assistance Awards Gala

By Jennifer L. Warren

WAPPINGERS FALLS – They were the first African-Americans to serve as military aviators in the United States Armed Forces, opening doors for others aspiring to pursue a similar, revered and rewarding path. Their groundbreaking, inspiring lives-laden with courage, perseverance, leadership and grit- chiseled a legacy that transcended their flying talents.

The Tuskegee Airmen not only fought up in the skies defending our country, but battled a host of discrimination both inside the army itself as well as outside of it. Subject to Jim Crow Laws, they were denied the basic necessities and respect their fellow white soldiers were afforded; still, they prevailed, accomplishing incredulous feats in the sky as well as life, setting a high barometer for those to follow.

In that very spirit, the Major General Irene Trowell-Harris Chapter Tuskegee Airmen, Inc. was created in 1998, carrying a clear purpose: Mentor youth in aviation and aerospace careers. A bustling hub, “Cradle to Careers,” of youth aviation education, it now spans the Lee A. Archer, Jr. Red Tail Youth Flying Program, Red Tail at the Newburgh Armory, Red Tail Flight Academy, Maintenance Partnership, Aviation Day camps, along with an assortment of internships and partnerships as well as so much more, leaving a lasting imprint on over 1400 students through 9000+ hours of annual volunteer/mentor hours.

Further, over the years, it has awarded over $331,000 in scholarships to deserving high school seniors, assisting them to follow their dreams in the sky and life. Another $14,000 was presented Saturday night at the Annual Tuition Assistance Award Celebration, where nine Hudson Valley participants were recognized for their strides with the Red Tail programs, and the theme: “From the skies of history to the dreams of tomorrow” rippled throughout the evening.

“Young people need to hear about the Tuskegee Legacy; it’s one filled with lessons that individuals can rise above difficult circumstances to achieve their goals,” said Doniella McKoy, Master of Ceremonies as well as proud Red Tail alumni. “Excellence knows no color, and hard work and perseverance can crush obstacles in the way.”

That potent, past connection-laden with inspiring ideals- from the Tuskegee to present day youth- was evident in the words of high school senior, Alixandra Alisca, 2025-2026 Red Tail Class Commander.

“The Program has taught me a lot about motivation, but the most lasting thing has been the leadership it has taught me,” said Alisca. “I’m constantly learning and growing while realizing making mistakes is a part of life; giving back to the community by volunteering at the Armory program and mentoring at the Camp, are also so important.” She added, “The Red Tail is about so much more than flying.”

It’s that deep, multifaceted, life impact that lies at the heart of the Red Tail Program. Saluting the legacy of the Tuskegee Airmen and all they represent, it aspires to keep their timeless light burning in our youth.

“We are building leaders for the next generation, not just pilots and mechanics, said long-time Board President, Glenn Fraser. “Many of our students come back and tell us about their children, marriages and lives; it’s the kind of program we have.”

That Scholarship family added nine more members to its impressive list. Myles K. Williams, Kimani Zidane Henry, Nyla Knight, Markyah-Sade Lee Johnson, Christah Labron, Kevin A. Aquino, Brianna Ebanks, Carson Clarke and Steven Yang were awarded scholarships to propel them on their collegiate and life journeys.

“This program has played a major role in my personal growth and has motivated me to pursue a future in aviation,” said Clarke, who aspires to becoming a pilot.

“I hope in some way, I can inspire at least one kid to follow through with their own dreams,” said Aquino, who is looking forward to a career in aeronautics, also with a goal to become a pilot.

The evening also included the recognition of three adult, community trailblazers: Kevin White (Legacy of Service Award), Theresa D. Ware (President’s Award), and Gilbert & Charlotte West (Community Mentor Award.) As with the youth saluted, each adult encapsulated the very best of what the Tuskegee men represented.

In that same light, so too did the Guest Speaker, Captain Theresa M. Claiborne, retired Captain of the Boeing 787 at United Airlines, one of 24 female pilots of 17,000 at United, and the first Black woman pilot in the Air Force. With the night’s theme (past-present Tuskehgee ties) at the forefront, Captain Claiborne delivered words centered upon her unplanned aviation journey, one chock-filled with skill sets similar to the Tuskegee.

“We salute you, those who look up to the sky, and say, ‘I belong,’” said Claiborne, who spoke about the critical need to do one’s very best, show up, and know no limits. “The runway beneath your feet is about men who were willing to fly when the world told them they couldn’t; the sky is not a limit, but an invitation.” Reflecting further, the aviation pioneer, looked out to the large, attentive group of youth in the room, adding, “Dreams are alive in you young people, and that sky is now yours, so when the world tells you the sky is the limit, fly higher.”