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 in his life. The plaza is open to the public, and we are excited to welcome everyone to the event.

During World War II, the renowned flying unit led by Lieutenant Jefferson, known as the Red Tails due to the distinctive red markings on their plane tails, played a crucial role in escorting bombers during missions over Europe. Their exceptional skill and bravery resulted in very few losses of the bombers they escorted, earning them a reputation that led to requests from bomber crews specifically asking for their support.

Caption: Granddaughter of Lt. Col Jefferson, Earnestine Lavergne, with statue of her grandfather.

Tragically, Jefferson’s aircraft was shot down during one of these missions, and he was taken as a POW. After his release, Jefferson returned to Detroit, where he embarked on a successful career as an educator, ultimately serving as a teacher and vice principal. Additionally, he played a significant role in founding a chapter of the Tuskegee Airmen in Detroit, furthering their legacy and contributions to aviation history.

The plaza was made possible by the generous support of Cynthia and Edsel Ford and the Henry Ford II Fund. Cynthia Ford emphasized that participating in this effort to honor Lt. Col. Alexander Jefferson and the Tuskegee Airmen was a privilege.

“By any measure, they were true heroes. They valiantly and selflessly served their country while overcoming the challenges of segregation and prejudice.  Lt. Col. Jefferson continued to live a life of purpose, service, and commitment to others in profoundly meaningful ways,” Cynthia Ford said.

“By honoring his life with this statue, visitors to the plaza in this city park will now have the opportunity to remember, show gratitude for, and be inspired by Lt. Col. Jefferson and his legacy of patriotism and service to his country and community.”

Jefferson was honored on his 100th birthday with the announcement of a completed plaza in Detroit. The plaza was created by Detroit ACE, in partnership with the General Services Department and the Department of Public Works, to serve as a welcoming public space to honor Jefferson’s contributions as a decorated World War II soldier and to inspire youth to pursue careers as pilots.

Rochelle Riley, the City’s Director of Arts and Culture, said she hopes the plaza “will serve as a gathering place at one of our biggest parks and a home where future pilots will hone their skills and find camaraderie.”

The statue was created by self-taught sculptor Austen Brantley, who combines African and Greek influences in his work. After an open call, a community panel of architects, artists, and historians chose him.

“I was thrilled to create a statue honoring a hero. Crafted with precision and passion, the bronze statue captures the courage, determination, and resilience of the legendary Tuskegee Airmen,” Brantley said.

“Every line, curve, and expression on the face of Lt. Col. Jefferson’s statue tells a story of bravery and honor. The intricate details of his uniform, the resilience and care in his eyes, and the dynamic pose all come together to create a powerful and inspiring tribute to this trailblazing aviator.”