Lt. Col. George Hardy, the last surviving combat pilot of the original Tuskegee Airmen, has died at the age of 100.

According to NBC News, the decorated serviceman died on Sept. 23. In addition to being the last surviving member of the Tuskegee Airmen, he was the last combat pilot of their World War II squadron.https://x.com/ABC/status/1972466730653159872

Hardy’s death comes nearly one month after Tuskegee University student Isaiah Hand made history as the first Black man to earn a pilot’s certification at an HBCU in 80 years.

George Hardy, one of the last surviving Tuskegee Airmen, has died at the age of 100. Linsey Davis reports for @abcworldnews. https://t.co/qDwm7RvX9h pic.twitter.com/kTxmNZQ52d— ABC News (@ABC) September 29, 2025

Honoring Lt. Col. George Hardy’s service across World War II, Korea and Vietnam

At just 19 years old, Hardy became the youngest of the famed Tuskegee Airmen to take flight. Commissioned as a second lieutenant in 1942, he stepped into history as part of the nation’s first group of Black military aviators. Hardy went on to log 21 missions over Nazi-occupied Germany during World War II before continuing his service in both the Korean and Vietnam wars, making his mark across three major US conflicts.

On the morning of Sept. 26, the Tuskegee Airmen, Inc. National Office announced Hardy’s death in a tribute shared via its Facebook page.

“Today is a sad day for Tuskegee Airmen, Incorporated. We announce the passing of a true American hero,” the post began. “Lt. Col. George Hardy, the youngest Red Tail fighter pilot at 19 to fly his first combat sortie over Europe as one of the legendary Tuskegee Airmen, has passed away at the age of 100. Stationed at Ramitelli Air Field in Italy during World War II, he would go on to complete 21 missions in defense of freedom. He also served in the Korean War and Vietnam War.”

In its statement, the organization highlighted Hardy’s remarkable service and lasting impact: “His legacy is one of courage, resilience, tremendous skill and dogged perseverance against racism, prejudice and other evils. We are forever grateful for his sacrifice and will hold dear to his memory. Our condolences to his family, friends, the remaining 13 Documented Original Tuskegee Airmen, and all who loved him.”

How did the Tuskegee Airmen help change the military?

The Tuskegee Airmen Inc. traces its roots back to World War II at a time when the U.S. military was still segregated. That era birthed the Tuskegee program, which put Black servicemen and women through training that critics once doubted they could complete.

Nearly 1,000 pilots went on to earn commissions and over 300 were deployed overseas. Thousands more, including women in support roles, joined the Tuskegee Airmen. Their service, both in the air and on the ground, helped break down the barriers that had long kept the military divided.

As of press time, 13 of the “Documented Original Tuskegee Airmen” are still alive.
The post Lt. Col. George Hardy, Last Surviving Combat Pilot Of Original Tuskegee Airmen, Dies At 100 appeared first on Blavity.



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