Learning Center Our Enshrinees

Charles Alfred “Chief” Anderson


  • In 1932, Anderson became the first African American to receive an air transport license.
  • Completed first transcontinental round trip flight by black pilots from Atlantic City, New Jersey to Los Angeles, California with Dr. Albert E. Forsythe.
  • Served as the as the Chief Civilian Flight Instructor in Tuskegee, Alabama for its new program to train black pilots. He developed a training program, taught the first advanced course, and earned his nickname, “Chief.”
  • Was selected by the Army as Tuskegee’s Ground Commander and Chief Instructor for aviation cadets of the 99th Pursuit Squadron, America’s first all-black fighter squadron which would eventually join three other squadrons of Tuskegee Airmen in the 332nd Fighter Group, the “Red Tails.”
  • Provided ground and flight training to black and white students under the G.I. Bill, as well as Army and Air Force ROTC cadets. Anderson instructed students until 1989.
  • In 1967, Anderson co-founded Negro Airmen International.

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