The Alabama Air National Guard’s F-35 Lightnings pay tribute to the Tuskegee Airmen by painting their tails red, reminiscent of the famed unit that shattered racial barriers with their combat achievements during World War II. However, the history of these Black military pilots faced a potential erasure when the Air Force briefly removed training videos of the Tuskegee Airmen and the Women’s Airforce Service Pilots (WASPs) in response to an executive order from President Trump.

The directive aimed at ending diversity, equity, and inclusion programs within the federal government triggered confusion and chaos across various agencies. The Army temporarily removed sexual assault regulations, and the Defense Intelligence Agency paused special observances like Black History Month. The CIA dissolved its Office of Diversity and Inclusion, complying with the order.

The reversal of these actions came after bipartisan outcry, highlighting the importance of recognizing the contributions of historically marginalized groups like the Tuskegee Airmen and WASPs. The episode underscored the challenges faced by organizations navigating shifting political landscapes while preserving essential parts of national history and culture.

Despite the initial upheaval, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth emphasized the valor of the Tuskegee Airmen and condemned the removal of their videos as “malicious implementation.” The incident sparked discussions about inclusivity, historical preservation, and the need to honor the diverse contributions of all Americans in shaping the country’s narrative.