I came across this article where 7 of the original Tuskegee Airmen are going to Iraq to have some pep talks with the members of their legacy squadron.  It is a very moving story of hundreds of black men who over came a race stratified society over 60 years ago to become heros for all Americans.  Indeed their record speaks for itself.

And these 7 men, the 'baby' being 80, are going in harms way once again, totally contemptuous of the dangers they face.  Not unaware, just daring any to cross their path.

That is itself is a story worthy of front page headlines, but at least they got the story out.  But what makes this story especially poignant is the statement by Ted Johnson, the "junior member" at only 80.

"It was the Tuskegee Airmen who made America come to its senses, that individuals should be judged on their accomplishments, rather than their ethnicity and color."

Yes they did.  They are heros for all of us, and with time, they have gotten older, but are much wiser than most of us.  The fought for an opportunity to contribute to the great war, when America looked at them as second class citizens.  They proved America wrong then, and they are proving many people wrong now.

They will not be found wanting when they are judged on their accomplishments.