| INDIANAPOLIS (March 26, 2026) – While the nation officially celebrates the stories and contributions of the Tuskegee Airmen today, Indiana has historical connections to these brave aviation warriors – and the Indianapolis International Airport (IND) is celebrating them through April 14 with the most extensive cultural exhibit in the airport’s history. This cultural exhibit is part of the Indy airport’s year-long tribute to the 250th birthday of the United States and the people who have shaped its history.
Yesterday, the Indy airport hosted a preemptive celebratory event in front of the Hometown Heroes large-scale mural in Civic Plaza featuring 44 Tuskegee Airmen with Indiana ties. The event was attended by Indianapolis Airport Authority officials and family members of the Airmen as well as the Tuskegee Airmen: American’s Freedom Flyers exhibit curator Robin Williams. The event also included special entertainment from the Decatur Central High School Jazz Band.
“The Tuskegee Airmen’s courage and contributions helped reshape our nation, and their story is on display with honor where it deserves to be – the Best Airport in North America,” said Holli Harrington, senior director of strategic alliance with the Indianapolis Airport Authority. “As we mark 250 years as a nation, the Tuskegee Airmen stand out among our nation’s most prominent legacies.”
Congress designated March 26 as National Tuskegee Airmen Day to honor the first Black military aviators, whose service and discipline helped advance the integration of the U.S. Armed Forces.
“The Tuskegee Airmen were a group of trailblazers who defied the odds and soared to greatness,” said Williams. “Indiana was home to some of the first and most notable Tuskegee Airmen, and their contributions were instrumental in shaping the history of this iconic group.”
Last fall, the Indy airport launched the unique and expansive rendition of William’s national traveling exhibit honoring the Airmen. The terminal‑wide exhibit fills every temporary art case with artifacts, photographs, and interpretive panels developed by NOLAWORLD in partnership with the Indy Arts Council. The exhibition will remain on display through April 14, 2026.
The exhibit highlights several Hoosiers who served among the Airmen, including Major Charles B. Hall of Brazil, the first Black pilot to shoot down an enemy aircraft; Dr. Lewis Jackson of Angola, director of flight training; and 2nd Lt. Charles H. DeBow Jr. of Indianapolis, one of the first five graduates of the Tuskegee program.
Williams said the exhibit was designed to connect travelers to both national and local history. Judith B. Thomas, president and chief executive officer of the Indy Arts Council, said the partnership reflects the power of public art to elevate shared stories and honor those who paved the way for future generations.
MEDIA MATERIALS: For video and still shots of the March 25 celebration and the exhibit, click here. |
