Hide Article Text (OCR)
Lawson made his mark as pilot, activistDarrell SmithAppeal-DemocratHerman Lawson was one of the first African-Americans to fly combat missions in World War II as a member of the legendary Tuskegee Airmen. He fought racism in the military and later as a community activist. He was only the second African-American to serve on the Sacramento City Council when named to the board in 1973.To Les Pogue of Marysville, his uncle was all of that and more.“He’s the guy who made me who I am. He’s my hero.”The 78-year-old Lawson, whowas raised in Marysville, graduated from Marysville High School and went on to a distinguished military and civic career, died May 9 at his Sacramento residence after a battle with Alzheimer’s disease.Lawson will receive full military honors at a memorial service at 1 p.m. today at Sacramento’s McClellan Air Force Base chapel.Pogue, an author, historian and consultant who lives in Marysville, remembered his uncle as a man passionately proud of his service to his country and of the pilots known as the “Red-Tailed Angels” — the U.S. Army AirCorps’ 99th Fighter Squadron.“He did it out of a desire to be an American,” Pogue said.Pilots of the 99th and the three other squadrons that made up the all-black 332nd Fighter Group — the 100th, 301st and 302nd fighter squadrons — were derided as “night fighters” because of the color of their skin, but quickly distinguished themselves in the skies over Europe and North Africa escorting bombers and flying dangerous, unarmed reconnaissance missions over enemy territory.The fighter group flew more than 15,000 sorties and more than1,500 missions all without losing a bomber to enemy fire. Lawson flew 133 of those missions, earning the Distinguished Flying Cross.“At one point, they were the most feared pilots in the air — the Red-Tailed Angels. When the Germans would see them, they would fly back the other way. They didn’t want to tangle with them. They were awesome,” Pogue said.Lawson and other Tuskegee Airmen had to overcome racism at home while defending their country in the skies. The way he did it continues to leave an impact on Pogue and his family.“As a kid, I felt pretty privileged to be related to this man. He inspired a lot of young peoplein our family. It’s pretty remarkable. I just want to be like him,” Pogue said. “He took the risk, accepted the challenge and overcame in a most positive way.”Lawson served on numerous neighborhood, school and business committees and organizations in the Sacramento area.Lawson is survived by his wife of 52 years, Pearl Lee, and a sister, Anna May of Challenge; a son, Thomas Lawson of Sacramento; five daughters, Patricia Dawson of Oakland, and Betty Davis, Gloria Riddle, Yvonne Warren and Tracey Rhodes, all of Sacramento; 13 grandchildren, four great-grandchildren and many cousins, nephews and nieces.
Newspaper Details
Marysville Yuba City Appeal Democrat
Marysville, California, US
Fri, May 19, 1995
Page 25
Full Page
Clipped by
Paula H.
MN, USA 06 Feb 2021
Other Publications Near Marysville, California
Marysville Daily National Democrat
Marysville Yuba Sutter Appeal Democrat
Marysville Yuba Appeal Democrat
Marysville Yuba City Appeal Democrat
Marysville Appeal Democrat
