George Hardy, Tuskegee Airman Who Inspired Generations, Dies at 100

Lieutenant Colonel George E. Hardy, one of the last remaining Tuskegee Airmen to participate in combat during World War II, has passed away in Sarasota, Florida, at the remarkable age of 100. Born in Philadelphia on June 8, 1925, Hardy joined the U.S. Army Air Corps at 18 and became a pilot by 19, making him the youngest Red Tail fighter pilot in the 332nd Fighter Group. He was based at Ramitelli Air Base in Italy, completing 21 missions across Europe. Referring to his experience, he noted, “We had our own club in Naples…so you didn’t go to the White club. That’s…the way life was,” in an interview with the Veterans History Project. After the war, Hardy continued serving as a supervising pilot at the Tuskegee Army Airfield until its closure in 1946, later completing 45 missions in the Korean War and 70 in the Vietnam War. His honors include the Distinguished Flying Cross with Valor and numerous commendations. Education held significant importance in his life, culminating in both bachelor’s and master’s degrees. Leon Butler Jr., president of Tuskegee Airmen, Inc., praised him as a devoted patriot deeply committed to preserving the legacy of his comrades. His contributions will remain...