Benjamin Oliver Davis, Jr. was born in Washington, D.C. in 1912. Son of the first black General, United States Army. Attended grade school in Tuskegee, AL. Graduated United States Military Academy, West Point, 1936. Professor of Military Science, Tuskegee Institute, 1938-1941. Joined the Army Air Corps in 1941. Among first six black Air Cadets to complete advanced flying training, 1942. Commander of 99th fighter squadron during operational training at Tuskegee Army air field and during combat in North Africa and Sicily, 1942-1943. Later commanded the 332nd fighter group in Europe. Awarded numerous combat awards including the Silver Star. Made significant contribution to the harmonious integration of the armed forces. Promoted to Lietenant General USAF in 1965.