🇺🇲WWII uncovered: POW/MIA Recognition Day: Alexander Jefferson of the Tuskegee Airmen.

 🇺🇲WWII uncovered: POW/MIA Recognition Day: Alexander Jefferson of the Tuskegee Airmen.

Alexander Jefferson, a lifelong resident of Detroit Michigan, graduated from Tuskegee Army Air Field’s pilot training in 1944, followed by combat training at Selfridge Airfield in Harrison Township. 

While serving as a P-51 fighter pilot with the 332nd Fighter Group - 301st Fighter Squadron in Ramitelli, Italy, Jefferson flew 18 missions before being shot down and held as a Prisoner of War at Stalag Luft III in Poland for eight months. 

After his release, Jefferson returned to the Tuskegee Army Airfield and served as an instrument instructor until he was honorably discharged from active duty in 1947 and retired from the Reserves in 1969 with the rank of Lieutenant Colonel. 

Alexander Jefferson continued his legacy of service as a teacher within the Detroit Public School System, retiring in 1979 with over 30 years of service.

"On November 15, 2021Jefferson was honored on his 100th birthday as Detroit officials awarded him a key to the city, shared plans to construct Lt. Col.

 Alexander Jefferson Plaza and rededicated Jefferson Field in Rouge Park, where he played as a child and flew model airplanes."

"Among his many honors, Lieutenant Colonel Jefferson was awarded the Purple Heart, Air Force Achievement Medal, POW Medal, American Defense Service Medal, World War II Victory Medal, National Defense Reserve Medal, Armed Forced Reserve Medal, Bronze Star and in 1995 was inducted into the Michigan Aviation Hall of Fame."

Lieutenant Colonel Alexander Jefferson passed away on June 22, 2022 at the age of 100 years old. He lies in rest at Great lakes National Cemetery in Holly Michigan. Lest We Forget.

Please take a moment to join us in remembering Lieutenant Colonel Alexander Jefferson for a lifetime of service to his country and the state of Michigan. Rest in peace Sir. You are not forgotten.