News Release
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
February 4, 2003

DEA Detroit Black History Program Features Tuskegee Airman

Detroit, Michigan- On February 4th, 2003, the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) held its annual Black History Month program at the Rick Finley Building. Master of Ceremonies Jeffrey Miller, a local television producer who produces documentary programs for the community led the program. Mr. Miller has been a friend to DEA Detroit and has assisted our office in getting demand reduction and drug trend information to the Detroit area public. The program included songs presented by children from the Alonzo Bates Academy for Gifted and Talented Students in Detroit. The keynote speaker was former Tuskegee Airman James C. Hayes of Detroit.

Mr. Hayes shared his experiences and those of other Tuskegee Airmen during World War II when blacks were not allowed to be part of the Air Corp of the United States military. Mr. Hayes explained the struggles of black Americans seeking to establish their ability to fly military aircraft and contribute to America's efforts. The Tuskegee Airmen went on to accomplish some of the most distinguished military escort records ever recorded in the United States military. Mr. Hayes is not only an outstanding role model for minorities, but for all Americans.