Before Their Tails Were "Red"

Before the first African American military pilots became known as the "Red Tails" they wore striped tails as they began their flight training in the Army's PT-17 Stearman bi-plane.  Their flying adventure started at Moton Field, in Tuskegee, Alabama, where the Army Air Corps conducted a military test to determine if African Americans could be trained to fly combat aircraft.

Tuskegee Airmen Orientation Video
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      Duration:
      4 minutes, 42 seconds

      Tuskegee Airmen National Historic Site Orientation Video.

      Tuskegee Airmen standing outside of P51 Mustang red tail.
      Welcome to the Park!

      Watch the park's main film.

      Five men standing in front of an airplane
      What to Expect

      Learn a little more about the park.

      PT-17 Stearman "Kaydet" Aircraft
      Plan Your Visit

      Review operating hours and directions

      Photograph of Tuskegee Airmen George S. Roberts at his desk
      Group Visits

      For groups of 10 or more let us know you're planning to visit and see what the Park has to offer.

      A Junior Ranger showcases his badges from across the country.
      Be a Junior Ranger

      Earn a junior ranger badge by learning about the Tuskegee Airmen.

      Volunteer logo with National Park Service Arrowhead in the center
      Volunteer with TUAI

      Learn more about volunteer opportunities at Tuskegee Airmen National Historic Site

      Last updated: May 20, 2025

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      Contact Info

      Mailing Address:

      1616 Chappie James Ave.
      Tuskegee, AL 36083

      Phone:

      (334)421-0340

      Contact Us