Tinker leaders reflect progress of armed forces integration Published July 25, 2008 By 72nd Air Base Wing Public Affairs 72nd Air Base Wing TINKER AIR FORCE BASE, Okla. -- July 26 marks the 60th anniversary of the integration of the U.S. Armed Forces. On that date in 1948, President Harry Truman signed Executive Order 9981, declaring "that there shall be equality of treatment and opportunity for all persons in the armed services without regard to race, color, religion or national origin." It was accompanied by Executive Order 9980, which created a Fair Employment Board to eliminate racial discrimination in federal employment. Today, members of the Armed Forces come from many different backgrounds and cultures and are answering the call to service with bravery, decency, and resolve. Tinker AFB reflects that progress, with African Americans currently serving in the top three leadership positions within the 72nd Air Base Wing. Col. Allen Jamerson assumed command of the 72nd ABW July 18, marking a distinct moment in Tinker AFB history. Colonel Jamerson, who also serves as the installation commander, along with vice wing commander Col. Mona Lisa Tucker and the command chief for the 72nd ABW, Chief Master Sgt. Eric Harmon, are all of African American descent. They are part of a wing that provides base operations support to more than 28,000 military and civilian personnel assigned to the Oklahoma City Air Logistics Center and 45 associate units here. "The possibility of three African Americans holding these positions was just a dream 60 years ago," said Colonel Jamerson. "In today's Air Force, it's really just business as usual." Before President Truman signed Executive Order 9981, the military was segregated, like much of the rest of society. There were all-black military units in every major American war since the Civil War. One of the most famous units was the Air Force's Tuskegee Airmen. Colonel Jamerson is quick to recognize the efforts of those men and realizes that the Air Force has come a long way. "Pioneers such as the Tuskegee Airmen and the other all-black units paved the way for their successors coming up through the ranks," he said. "They broke down the myths and stereotypes of the era. Their sacrifices and successes have paid off not only for African Americans, but for all military personnel who aspire to be leaders." Added Colonel Tucker, who assumed her position in July 2007, "The 72nd Air Base Wing supports one of the most diverse installations in the Air Force. From depot maintenance to airborne warning and control, strategic communications and so much more, Tinker is a national defense asset. I am extremely proud to be part of this wing's senior leadership team and hopefully serve as an example of the opportunities that await all airmen." "When I look back at the past and now at the present, this is truly an amazing opportunity to serve with Colonel Jamerson and Colonel Tucker," Chief Harmon said. "I am thankful as a migrant from Guyana, South America, and as an African American, to be blessed to serve in this capacity at the hallmark of this historical event that marks the 60th anniversary of the integration of the armed forces. This would not be possible without the many sacrifices of the pioneers and many brave African Americans before us who made it possible for everyone regardless of their racial or cultural background to serve in key leadership positions." Added Colonel Jamerson, "The armed forces helped pioneer much of the change in America the past six decades and your country is much better off for it. I'm honored to command the 72nd Air Base Wing, and to serve alongside Colonel Tucker, Chief Harmon and all of the outstanding Airmen, civilians, and contractors who support our nation's defense."