Page 37 - Appendix A

sometimes unfairly. I felt that it was a significant leg up that I’d received my license privately in
the civilian world because once I entered pilot training, by the grace of God, I was able to

understand the basics a little better.

Sharing your experiences/thoughts. Please use this section to share any experiences or
thoughts on this topic from your experiences, the experiences of others, etc. that you feel are
relevant to the of the experience of black student pilots in Air Force pilot training.
Racism exists, and is a factor in many situations. As you advance in rank and
position/responsibility, it can be a significant factor. But life, UPT, the Air Force career, and any
career for that matter is like…and can be like, one big game of survivor. The relationships you
establish make the difference. Your attitude makes a difference. You must be able to: See the
ball, and be the ball. Faith and adherence to God’s principles is also a factor...depending on how

you believe; it can be THE factor. Personally, I think it was my determining factor.
When people look like you and by-and-large think like you, there is a certain synergy that with
that. When you are the only person who looks and thinks a certain way, that can become a
stumbling block to many. An unnecessary hurdle on the road to a goal that many of us have
fought for all our lives. And in a world where few mistakes are allowed. I was told this by
somebody smart: As imperfect creatures, we all have flaws...all of us. If somebody is looking for
a flaw, they’ll find it. It really depends on what they do with what they find.

Survey Questions:

Also, I was an engineer. Having graduated from a certain “school of thought” trained me in a
way that was invaluable. I was told I graduated in the top 15% of my UPT class. I think also, my
affiliation with a historically black fraternity was also a huge factor. I think experiences
like those help blacks to establish relationships and enjoy them through the lens of self-
assuredness and belief. At least all I can say is that I know it helped me.

What year did you complete your training and at what location? 1989 Laughlin AFB