William Bartley (pilot) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Captain
William Bartley
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William Roscoe Bartley
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| Birth name | William Roscoe Bartley |
| Nickname(s) | Will |
| Born | May 16, 1916 Jacksonville, FL |
| Died | January 28, 2011 (aged 94) Jacksonville, FL |
| Buried |
Mill Creek Road Cemetery Eureka, Marion County, Florida, USA
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| Service/ |
United States Army Air Force |
| Years of service | 1942-1950 |
| Rank | Captain |
| Unit | 332nd Fighter Group |
| Awards | Congressional Gold Medal awarded to Tuskegee Airmen |
Captain William Bartley (born May 16, 1916 – died January 28, 2011) was an American pilot. He was a brave member of the famous Tuskegee Airmen during World War II. These pilots were African American and helped fight for freedom and equality. William Bartley became a pilot in 1943. He was part of the 332nd Fighter Group and the 99th Fighter Squadron.
Contents
Becoming a Tuskegee Airman
William Bartley was born in Jacksonville, Florida. He went to Old Stanton High School and graduated in 1935. After high school, he studied at the School of Business Administration at Tuskegee Institute. He finished his business studies in 1939.
Pilot Training and Service
William Bartley returned to Tuskegee University for pilot training. He graduated as a pilot in 1943. He was given the rank of 2nd Lieutenant. This was an important step for him and for African Americans in the military.
He joined the 332nd Fighter Group and the 99th Fighter Squadron. These groups were part of the Tuskegee Airmen. They were known for their skill and bravery in the skies.
Life After the War
After serving in World War II, William Bartley continued his military career. In 1946, he joined the Air Force Reserve. He was promoted to the rank of Captain. He served in the Air Force Reserve until 1950.
Working in the Community
After his time in the military, Captain Bartley worked in different fields. He worked in real estate, helping people buy and sell homes. In the 1960s, he became the business manager for Edward Waters College. This college is also in Jacksonville, Florida.
Special Recognition
The Tuskegee Airmen, including Captain William Bartley, received a very special award. In 2006, they were given the Congressional Gold Medal. This is one of the highest awards a civilian can receive in the United States. It recognized their courage and important contributions during World War II. They helped pave the way for more equality in the military and in America.
See also
- Executive Order 9981
- List of Tuskegee Airmen
- Military history of African Americans
