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Tuskegee Airman takes part in next-generation promotion

  • Published
  • By Staff Sgt. Grant Saylor
  • 446th Airlift Wing
The past and future met Oct. 3 in a promotion ceremony that bridged two generations of American heroes.

Retired Lt. Col. Edward Drummond, a Tuskegee Airman who flew the B-25 bomber and P-47 Thunderbolt during a 25-year Air Force career, administered the oath of office to Kimberly Scott during her promotion ceremony to lieutenant colonel. Colonel Scott, a reservist with the 728th Airlift Squadron here, is believed to be the only current rated female African American C-17 pilot in the U.S. Air Force.

"I have a deep sense of gratitude for the Tuskegee Airmen and the legacy they have etched for me," said Colonel Scott. "They've mentored, encouraged and supported me over the years, so it's incredibly meaningful to me to have been sworn in by Colonel Drummond."

Colonel Drummond, 82, said he was equally honored to be a part of the ceremony celebrating the achievements of a modern day Tuskegee Airman.

"I can't tell you how proud I am that she's doing so well," said Colonel Drummond. "Tuskegee Airmen who have passed on are no doubt looking down and smiling at what has transpired to make it possible for young folks like Kimberly to be successful in the military."

Colonels Scott and Drummond are members of the Seattle-area Sam Bruce Chapter of Tuskegee Airmen. The chapter is dedicated to providing scholarships for deserving youth and sharing the story of the Tuskegee Airmen.

Colonel Scott's family, friends and several of her fellow Airmen from the 728th AS attended the promotion ceremony.

"This was a momentous day for me so I was nervous," said Colonel Scott. "But I'm also happy and grateful to Colonel Drummond for taking time to support me and the 446th Airlift Wing."

Colonel Drummond, who served as operations officer for the 318th Fighter Squadron at McChord AFB in 1961 and 1962, was quick to shine the spotlight back on Colonel Scott.

"We are so happy that we inspired her, but we don't want to distract from her pinning on ceremony," said Colonel Drummond. "This is Kimberly's day." (Air Force Reserve Command News Service)