USAF CMSgt James Cotten In The Interest Of The Nation
"I learned about respect. Regardless of
what color you are, whether you’re male or female, what got me
through was my respect and understanding of people."
As
a Tuskegee Airman and the first African American at Langley Air
Force Base, James Cotten helped bridge the social gaps present in
America at the height of racial tension. His dedication to his
country and the American dream played a part in shaping the future
of our Air Force and ultimately our nation.
U.S. Air Force Chief Master Sgt. (Ret.)
James A. Cotten's 45 years of proud service to country began in
January 1945 ... when he was selected for assignment to the Tuskegee
Airmen Fighter Group, known as the ‘Red Tails’. The pilots,
navigators, bombardiers, maintenance, support staff, instructors and
all personnel who kept the planes in the air, along with others who
supported their achievements, paved the way for integration of our
U.S. Military.
In July of 1949, he was assigned to the
334th Fighter Interceptor Squadron 4th Fighter Group as Air
Operations NCO. He was the first African-American assigned to this
organization after integration of the U.S. Armed Forces.
His military awards consist of the Air Force
Commendation Medal (First Oak Leaf Cluster), Air Force Good Conduct
Medal, Air Force Longevity Service Award (with four Bronze
Clusters), Air Force Outstanding Unit Award, World War II Victory
Award and the National Defense Service Award. He also was honored
with the Congressional Gold Medal.
Note: James A. Cotten is 90 years old in
this video.
U.S. Air Force video by Senior
Airman Nicolas Myers - August 2017
