Tuskegee Airman Honored: Statue and Plaza Dedication at Rouge Park Commemorate War Hero

Caption: Mayor Mike Duggan, Councilman Fred Durhal III (District 7), Councilman Coleman A. Young II (At Large) and the Detroit Chapter of Tuskegee Airmen. Mayor Mike Duggan, surrounded by Lt. Col. Alexander Jefferson’s family and former students, led a poignant ceremony today to reveal a striking new statue and plaza. This beautiful memorial is dedicated to honoring the extraordinary legacy of Lt. Col. Alexander Jefferson, a distinguished Tuskegee Airman whose heroic efforts were instrumental in the victory during World War II. After returning home, Lt. Col. Jefferson overcame pervasive discrimination to establish himself as a revered and influential educator. “Lt. Col. Jefferson was a hero in every sense of the word and so richly deserves this honor. He distinguished himself as a Tuskegee Airman and prisoner of war in World War II and again at home as a celebrated educator. The people of Detroit are deeply grateful to him for his service, and this plaza and statue is a reflection of our collective appreciation,” Duggan said. The Jefferson Field is located at the corner of Spinoza Drive and Joy Road in Rouge Park. This area holds historical significance as it was where Lt. Col. Jefferson enjoyed flying model airplanes later...