Roscoe Brown facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Roscoe Brown
|
|
---|---|
![]() Dr Brown speaks at the dedication of the Tuskeege Airmen Bus Depot of MTA Regional Bus.
|
|
Born | Washington, D.C. |
March 9, 1922
Died | July 2, 2016 Riverdale, New York |
(aged 94)
Allegiance | United States |
Service/ |
Army Air Corps |
Rank | Captain |
Unit | 100th Fighter Squadron of the 332nd Fighter Group |
Conflict | World War II |
Roscoe C. Brown, Jr. (born March 9, 1922 – died July 2, 2016) was an American hero. He was one of the famous Tuskegee Airmen. These were brave African-American pilots who flew during World War II. Roscoe Brown was a leader, serving as a squadron commander. He led the 100th Fighter Squadron, which was part of the 332nd Fighter Group.
He flew for the U.S. Army Air Forces in Europe. During the war, Captain Brown showed incredible skill. He shot down two enemy planes. One was an advanced German Me-262 jet fighter. The other was a FW-190 fighter.
Who Was Roscoe Brown?
Roscoe C. Brown, Jr. was born in Washington, D.C. in 1922. He grew up to become a very important person. He was not just a pilot; he was also an educator. He taught at different colleges later in his life. He helped many students learn and grow.
The Tuskegee Airmen
The Tuskegee Airmen were a group of African-American military pilots. They flew during World War II. At that time, the U.S. military was segregated. This meant black and white soldiers were kept separate. Many people thought African Americans could not be good pilots.
The Tuskegee Airmen proved them wrong. They trained at Tuskegee University in Alabama. They became excellent pilots and fought bravely. They flew thousands of missions. They protected bombers from enemy planes. Their courage helped change opinions about race in the military.
Flying in World War II
Roscoe Brown was a pilot in the European part of World War II. He flew a fighter plane. His job was to protect larger bomber planes. He also fought against enemy aircraft.
One of his most famous achievements was shooting down a German Me-262 jet. This was a very fast and advanced plane. It was one of the first jet fighters ever used in combat. Shooting it down showed how skilled Captain Brown was. He also shot down a FW-190 fighter, another dangerous enemy plane. His bravery helped the Allies win the war.
Images for kids
-
Brown receives the Congressional Gold Medal from President George W. Bush in 2007