Wreath Laying Ceremony Honors Sacrifices Of The Tuskegee Airmen

By: KDKA-TV News Staff

SEWICKLEY (KDKA) - "Amazing Grace" closed out a wreath-laying ceremony on Sunday, honoring the sacrifices of the Tuskegee Airmen.

Dozens of organizations, along with active and retired military members paid tribute at the memorial in Sewickley.

The airmen were the first African-American aviators to serve in the United States Armed Forces.

Some 100 airmen, including a woman, were from western Pennsylvania.

"They epitomize what being an American is about, without worrying of race, color, creed, religion," said Robert Nichol, Eminent Commander of the Allegheny Commandery #35, Knights Templar Pennsylvania. "This day turns into a day where we all gather in a day of friendship, brotherhood, and fellowship."

The Tuskegee Airmen Memorial opened in September 2013.