General Daniel "Chappie" James left an enduring legacy as the first African American four-star general in the U.S. military. His trailblazing career and exceptional leadership not only broke racial barriers within the armed forces but also inspired future generations of service members, exemplifying the values of dedication, excellence, and perseverance. As a Tuskegee Airmen, he was a civilian instructor pilot in the Army Air Corps Aviation Cadet Program until January 1943, when he entered the program as a cadet and received his commission as a second lieutenant in July 1943. He next completed fighter pilot combat training at Selfridge Field, Michigan.
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