LeRoy W. Homer Jr. Honored With Tuskegee Airmen

Washington, DC., March 29, 2007 –  The Tuskegee Airmen received the Congressional Gold Medal today, in a touching ceremony at the nation’s Capitol.  Over 300 airmen, spouses, widows and other family members were present in the rotunda when Nancy Pelosi, Speaker of the House of Representatives, accompanied by the President and other members of the House and Senate, presented this prestigious award to the legendary group of black aviators, over sixty years after they served, in World War II.

Because of his heroic actions on September 11, 2001, the airmen had honored LeRoy Homer by posthumously bestowing him the title – Tuskegee Airman, at his memorial service in 2001.  Melodie Homer, LeRoy’s widow and the President of The LeRoy W. Homer Jr. Foundation was in attendance at the Capitol when the medal was awarded.

“LeRoy was inspired by many legendary aviators, including the Tuskegee Airmen”, noted Melodie Homer of Marlton, NJ.  The Tuskegee Airmen received the honor through legislation by Sen. Carl Levin (D-MI) and Rep. Charles Rangel (D-NY).  It’s an honor to attend this [historical event] on LeRoy’s behalf”, Melodie Homer said.  The medal will be placed in the Smithsonian Institute; all airmen received a bronze replica.