Tuskegee Airman and WWII Combat Pilot Harry Stewart Jr. Dies at 100
Retired Lt. Col. Harry Stewart Jr., one of the last surviving members of the legendary Tuskegee Airmen, has passed away at the age of 100. A decorated World War II combat pilot, Stewart was part of the historic 332nd Fighter Group, the pioneering all-Black unit that shattered racial barriers in the U.S. military.
The Tuskegee Airmen National Historical Museum confirmed that Stewart died Sunday at his home in Bloomfield Hills, Michigan, a suburb of Detroit. He is survived by his daughter, Lori Collette Stewart, and extended family.
During World War II, Stewart flew 43 combat missions over Europe, escorting bombers and engaging enemy aircraft. His squadron earned a reputation for excellence, famously never losing a bomber to enemy fire—a feat that solidified their legacy. Stewart himself was credited with downing three enemy planes in a single day, earning the Distinguished Flying Cross for his bravery.
Despite their service, the Tuskegee Airmen faced segregation and discrimination both during and after the war. Stewart continued breaking barriers, later pursuing a career as an engineer when opportunities in aviation remained limited for Black veterans. He later became an advocate for preserving the Airmen’s history, speaking at events and inspiring future generations.
“He was a true American hero,” the Tuskegee Airmen National Historical Museum said in a statement. “His courage, skill, and perseverance helped pave the way for racial integration in the U.S. military.”
Stewart’s passing marks the loss of another member of the groundbreaking unit whose contributions helped shape both military history and civil rights progress.
A memorial service is expected to be announced in the coming days.
