The Tuskegee Airmen were a group of African American pilots and aircrew who served during World War II. They were trained at the Tuskegee Institute in Alabama, becoming the first black military aviators in the United States Armed Forces. Their successful missions helped challenge racial stereotypes and demonstrated that African Americans could excel in demanding roles. The Tuskegee Airmen flew various aircraft, including the P-51 Mustang, and were known for their distinctive red-tailed planes. They played a crucial role in escorting bombers and protecting them from enemy fighters, earning numerous awards and commendations for their bravery and skill.