BALTIMORE – U.S. Senator Ben Cardin (D-Md.) today issued the following statement upon learning of the passing of William Colbert, Jr., a Tuskegee Airman, Congressional Gold Medal recipient and resident of Cumberland, Md.
“I would like to express my most heartfelt condolences to the family of William Colbert, Jr., who volunteered to serve his country and became a Tuskegee Airman at a time when he was treated as a second-class citizen simply because of the color of his skin. I had the honor of presenting Mr. Colbert a well-deserved Congressional Gold Medal just two weeks ago. After meeting his loving family, it was clear that Mr. Colbert’s service did not stop after his time as one of the famed “Red Tails” in the Army Air Corps. He lived a life dedicated to enriching his community, and our entire nation, by leading through personal example. He showed through his life the profound impact one man can make. Mr. Colbert will be missed dearly by his family, friends and community. I know his legacy will live on. “
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