Minneapolis Mural Honors Tuskegee Airmen and Inspires Generations
Minneapolis, MN (January 14, 2025)– The vibrant city of Minneapolis has gained a new symbol of inspiration and perseverance: a stunning mural honoring the Tuskegee Airmen, painted by acclaimed painter Flahn Manly. This artistic tribute not only celebrates the legacy of these heroic World War II pilots but also shines a spotlight on the six guiding principles of the Commemorative Air Force (CAF) RISE ABOVE Program, designed to inspire young people to overcome adversity.
The story behind the mural begins in 2017, with a heartfelt essay written by James Timothy Baker, a high school student whose life was profoundly influenced by his connection with the Tuskegee Airmen. In his essay, James recounted meeting his hero and mentor, Brig. Gen. Charles McGee, one of the original Tuskegee Airmen. This encounter, Baker wrote, shaped his life and instilled in him values that he strives to embody and share with his community.
Check out this video of the mural.
Flahn Manly discovered Baker’s essay and found it to be a source of deep inspiration. Moved by the powerful connection between the younger generation and the legacy of the Tuskegee Airmen, the artist envisioned a mural that would bring this story to life. He chose the side of Minne’s, a Black-owned restaurant on Glenwood Avenue in Minneapolis, as the canvas for his work. This location holds special significance, as it was once owned by the Baker family, bridging past and present through art and history.
The mural is a vibrant masterpiece, capturing the spirit and determination of the Tuskegee Airmen while reflecting the hope and potential of future generations. Manly’s bold colors and intricate details convey the Airmen’s journey, from their struggles against racial barriers to triumphs in the skies. Central to the mural are the CAF RISE ABOVE Six Guiding Principles: Aim High, Believe in Yourself, Use Your Brain, Be Ready to Go, Never Quit, and Expect to Win. These principles serve as a beacon of inspiration, reminding viewers of the importance of perseverance and self-belief. For Manly, the mural is more than an artistic endeavor—it’s a message to the community.
The mural’s connection to the CAF RISE ABOVE Program underscores its mission: to educate and inspire through the remarkable stories of the Tuskegee Airmen and Women Air Force Service Pilots (WASP). By highlighting the timeless lessons of perseverance and courage, CAF RISE ABOVE aims to motivate individuals to overcome obstacles and achieve their goals. The initiative brings history to life for communities nationwide through outreach events and educational programs.
To learn more about CAF RISE ABOVE and its schedule of events, visit their website at https://cafriseabove.org/.
