The Iowa State HUD Office celebrated Black History Month with a presentation by Dr. James Bowman, a distinguished local African American leader and one of the original Tuskegee Airmen. Among his many lifetime accomplishments, Dr. Bowman was a Tuskegee fighter pilot.

In addition to Dr. Bowman's presentation, the office displayed its collection of poster portraits of famous African Americans. This collection was developed by Ms. Jean Terrill, longtime administrative officer in the Iowa Office, who passed away two years ago.

HUD and Des Moines Federal Building staff and guests listen to Dr. Bowman's discussion of his experiences as a WWII fighter pilot with the famous Original Tuskegee Airmen. Some of the HUD poster portrait gallery of famous African Americans can be seen to the left of the photograph.

Dr. Bowman described his experiences as a Tuskegee airman, including pilot training and experiences involved in flying a fighter plane. Dr. Bowman quipped that "flying is heavenly as long as you avoid contact with the ground". He displayed many photos and exhibits from his career as a fighter pilot, and answered many questions.

Dr. Bowman with (from left) State Coordinator William McNarney, and the HUD Iowa Office's Krista Bowersox, Pamela Dodge and Diane Hooten.