James Alonzo Walker facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
James A. Walker
|
|
|---|---|
James A. Walker
|
|
| Birth name | James Alonzo Walker |
| Nickname(s) | Jimmy |
| Born | September 20, 1918 Manning, South Carolina U.S. |
| Died | March 26, 1992 (aged 73) Hayward, California U.S. |
| Allegiance | United States of America |
| Service/ |
|
| Years of service | 1943-1964 |
| Rank | Lieutenant colonel |
| Unit | 332d Fighter Group |
| Awards |
|
| Alma mater | Hampton Institute |
| Spouse(s) | Cynthia |
| Children | 4 |
James Alonzo Walker (born September 20, 1918 – died August 23, 2004) was an American pilot. He was from Manning, South Carolina. Walker was a brave Tuskegee Airman during World War II.
He flew over 102 missions in Europe during the war. He was shot down over Serbia, which was occupied by Germany at the time. Walker was rescued in July 1944 by a group called the Chetniks during a mission known as Operation Halyard. He continued to serve in the military until 1964. In 1950, he made history as the first African American to lead a military unit that included both Black and white soldiers.
Early Life and Education
James Alonzo Walker was born in Manning, South Carolina. His parents were James and Daisy Walker. He attended high school in Baltimore, Maryland.
After high school, Walker went to Hampton Institute in Virginia. Before he joined the Tuskegee Airmen, he already had 90 hours of flight experience. This showed his early passion for flying.
Military Career and Rescue
Walker joined the military as a cadet in July 1941. He was assigned to the 99th Pursuit Squadron of the 332nd Fighter Group in June 1942. He was part of Class 43-E-SE, a group of trained pilots.
During a mission, Walker was shot down over Serbia. He was missing for 30 days. While on the ground, he met a brave teenager named Aleksandar Zivkovic. This teen helped Walker hide from enemy forces. Zivkovic also helped him return to his unit 39 days later.
Walker flew a P-40 Warhawk plane in Europe during World War II. After being shot down, he was rescued by the Chetniks and General Dragoljub Draža Mihailović. They helped transport him safely to Italy. Many years later, Walker met Zivkovic again to thank him for his help.
In 1950, at Langley Air Force Base, Walker became a pioneer. He was the first African American officer to command a military unit that was not separated by race. This was a big step forward for equality in the armed forces.
Walker served for 26 years in the military. He retired with the respected rank of Lieutenant Colonel.
Awards and Special Honors
James A. Walker received several important awards for his service:
- Air Medal with three oak leaf clusters and four battle stars.
- The Congressional Gold Medal in 2006, awarded to all Tuskegee Airmen.
- The Distinguished Flying Cross (United States).
See Also
- Executive Order 9981
- List of Tuskegee Airmen
- List of Tuskegee Airmen Cadet Pilot Graduation Classes
- Military history of African Americans
- The Tuskegee Airmen (movie)
