James T. Wiley

James Wiley, a Tuskegee Airman, received a degree in physics from the University of Pittsburgh and wanted to be a scientist, but because of his race could only get a job as a chauffeur.  He obtained his pilot’s license and went to the Tuskegee Institute, a “paradise,” as an instructor.  After enlisting in 1942, he served in the famed 99th Pursuit Squadron of the Army Air Force, flew more than a hundred missions over southern Europe, and was awarded the Air Medal.  In 1965, Colonel Wiley retired from “a wonderful military career” and then worked for fifteen years as a customer engineer with the Boeing Company.  He and his wife, Ruby, raised three children.

Dates Alive:
1918-2000

Family:
Woodson

Location (at interview):
Seattle, WA

Interview Details:

10 July 1994, Columbus, OH
Interviewees: James Wiley, Logan Wiley

3 Dec. 1998, Seattle, WA
Interviewee: James Wiley

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