Calvin J. Spann facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Calvin J. Spann
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1st Lt. Calvin J. Spann, an original Tuskegee Airman of the 332nd Fighter Group 100th Squadron
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| Born | November 28, 1924 Rutherford, New Jersey, U.S.
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| Died | September 6, 2015 (aged 90) Texas, U.S.
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Calvin J. Spann (born November 28, 1924 – died September 6, 2015) was a brave American pilot. He was one of the original Tuskegee Airmen. These were the first African American military pilots in the U.S. armed forces. Spann was a fighter pilot in the 100th Fighter Squadron. This squadron was part of the famous 332nd Fighter Group. He earned his pilot wings from the Tuskegee Flight School. This happened as part of his graduating class, 44G. He served in Europe during World War II with the United States Army Air Corps. Spann flew 26 important combat missions before the war ended in Europe.
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Early Life and School
Calvin J. Spann was born in Rutherford, New Jersey. He grew up there and went to Rutherford High School.
Becoming a Tuskegee Airman
During World War II, Calvin Spann joined the military. He served from 1944 to 1946. He was assigned to the 332nd Fighter Group. This group was led by Colonel Benjamin O. Davis Jr.. Colonel Davis was a very important person. On September 2, 1941, he became the first African American officer to fly an aircraft alone for the U.S. Army Air Corps. Later, Davis became a general in the United States Air Force.
Flying Missions in Europe
As part of the 332nd Fighter Group, Spann flew many missions. One of his most famous flights was on March 24, 1945. This was the longest bomber escort mission flown by the 15th Air Force. He flew 1600 miles round trip. The mission went from Ramitelli, Italy, to Berlin, Germany. Their goal was to help destroy a factory there. This brave mission was led by squadron commander Captain Roscoe Brown.
Life After the War
After his military service, Calvin Spann lived in Englewood, New Jersey. He worked in the pharmaceutical industry. He also spent a lot of time sharing his experiences. Spann spoke at schools, churches, and other groups. He told stories about the Tuskegee Airmen. He explained how their courage helped them succeed. He encouraged young people to study math and science. He reminded them that with hard work, they could achieve anything.
Later Years and Legacy
Calvin Spann passed away on September 6, 2015. He was 90 years old. He died in McKinney, Texas. He had moved there in 2006 to be near his daughter, Carla Spann, and his grandchildren, Carson and Cameron. He is buried in East Ridgelawn Cemetery in Clifton, New Jersey. His legacy as a Tuskegee Airman continues to inspire many.
Awards and Honors
Calvin J. Spann received several important awards for his service:
- The Air Medal with Oak Leaf Cluster
- A Presidential Unit Citation
- The European/African/Middle Eastern Campaign Ribbon
- The American Campaign Ribbon
- The World War II Victory Medal
- The Congressional Gold Medal (awarded to the Tuskegee Airmen as a group)
Learn More
- Dogfights (TV series)
- Executive Order 9981
- Freeman Field Mutiny
- List of Tuskegee Airmen
- Military history of African Americans
- The Tuskegee Airmen (movie)
