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OUR MISSION

To preserve the lessons learned from the Tuskegee Airmen about Character, Persistence, Valor, and Leadership.

We engage with youth to inspire careers in Aerospace and all the associated careers from mechanical to flight operations.

Youth Aviation & STEM Programs

Introducing young minds to flight, engineering, and innovation.

Mentorship & Scholarships

Supporting students who dream of careers in aviation, the military, or public service.

Community Engagement

Hosting events, educational panels, and outreach programs that celebrate history and inspire future leaders.

Veteran Support

Honoring and assisting those who served, while connecting generations through shared stories of perseverance and excellence.

Commemorative and Cultural Events

Honoring Black military history and promoting unity through celebrations, symposiums, and public programs.

Partnerships with Schools & Organizations

Collaborating with community leaders, educators, and veterans’ groups to broaden our reach and deepen our impact.

ABOUT US

Red Tails Over the Carolinas is a proud chapter of Tuskegee Airmen, Inc., honoring the legacy of the courageous men and women who blazed trails in aviation, military service, and civil rights. We are committed to preserving the history of the original Tuskegee Airmen while inspiring and empowering the next generation through education, mentorship, and community service.

Our chapter represents the spirit of excellence, leadership, and resilience that defines the Tuskegee Airmen legacy — ensuring their story continues to uplift and motivate people of all ages throughout the Carolinas and beyond.

100% Committed to Legacy: Honoring the courageous men and women of the Tuskegee Airmen who broke barriers in aviation, military service, and civil rights.

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100% Focused on Preservation: Dedicated to keeping the history and heroism of the original Tuskegee Airmen alive for future generations.

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100% Driven by Empowerment: Inspiring youth through education, mentorship, and community engagement across the Carolinas.

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100% Rooted in Excellence: Upholding the values of leadership, resilience, and pride that define the Tuskegee Airmen legacy.

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OUR EVENTS

Red Tails Over the Carolinas proudly hosts events that celebrate the legacy of the Tuskegee Airmen while inspiring future generations to soar higher. Each gathering reflects our mission of education, empowerment, and community service — honoring the past while building a brighter future.

From youth aviation programs and scholarship fundraisers to community outreach, leadership workshops, and commemorative ceremonies, our events bring people together to remember, learn, and lead.

Join us as we continue to honor the history, uplift the present, and inspire the future — one event at a time.

Boy Scout troop 411 at Union Baptist Church

November 2025

Boy Scout troop 411 at Union Baptist Church

November 2025

Boy Scout troop 411 at Union Baptist Church

November 2025

Boy Scout troop 411 at Union Baptist Church

November 2025

THE TEAM

The dedicated members of Red Tails Over the Carolinas proudly carry forward the legacy of the Tuskegee Airmen through service, leadership, and mentorship. United by a shared commitment to excellence, our team embodies the courage, discipline, and determination that defined the original Airmen.

Together, we work to preserve history, promote education, and empower future generations across the Carolinas and beyond. Whether through community programs, youth outreach, or educational initiatives, our team’s passion ensures the Tuskegee Airmen’s story continues to inspire and uplift.

Wayland Burton

President

Wayland Burton is President of the Redtails over the Carolinas. He is a Life Member of the Tuskegee Airmen, Inc. and a Vietnam veteran of the US Air Force. The Tuskegee airmen hold a special place in his heart, having gone through adversity doing segregation in the south. As a dedicated member of Red Tails Over the Carolinas, Wayland brings strong leadership and a deep passion for preserving the legacy of the Tuskegee Airmen. Through his work in education, outreach, and youth programs, Wayland helps advance our mission of honoring history and inspiring future generations.

Michelle Parker-Evans

Secretary

Michelle Parker-Evans is the owner and CEO of VMP Consulting Solutions. Inspired by the legacy of the Tuskegee Airmen, Michelle leads with purpose and vision. Her dedication reflects the same determination and integrity that powered the original Airmen’s historic achievements — empowering others to dream, learn, and lead.

Nikki Burton

Event Coordinator

Nikki Burton is a marketing professional with more than ten years of experience as a brand storyteller, creative thinker, and strategist. She developed her expertise through account management roles at agencies in New York and the Bay Area, working across a wide range of industries. She's known for bringing a fresh, thoughtful perspective to every challenge and turning complex ideas in clear, engaging solutions.

Kafi Ayanna Allah

Treasurer

Kafi has a Master's Degree in Library Science (MLS). She has strong organizational, problem-solving, and leadership skills. Knowledge of automated functions and current trends. Experienced in budget management through the management of project library budgets, handling expenditures, and pursuing through grants.

MEMBERSHIP

Join us in continuing the Tuskegee legacy!


Becoming a member of the Redtails over the Carolinas Chapter helps to honor the accomplishments and perpetuate the history of African-Americans who participated in air crew, ground crew and operations support training in the Army Air Corps during WWII. We are looking for individuals who believe in our mission and want to see us continue to inspire young people across the nation to the world of aviation, aerospace, mathematics and science. We appreciate your consideration and look forward to serving with you.


Regular

Any applicant willing to work toward achievement of goals, objectives and purpose of TAI.

Complete Form

Email completed form to: contact@redtails-tai.com


Military Enlisted

Applicant in any branch of military service in grades E1 - E9.

Complete Form

Email completed form to: contact@redtails-tai.com


Student

Applicant who is full-time student and under age of 25 interested in learning about & preserving the Tuskegee Experience.

Complete Form

Email completed form to: contact@redtails-tai.com


Life

Applicant who has been accepted and paid full fee ($750.00) for National Life Membership.

Complete Form

Email completed form to: contact@redtails-tai.com


DOTA or Spouse

Documented Original Tuskegee Airman or their spouse. Membership is free.

Complete Form

Email completed form to: contact@redtails-tai.com



Annual Membership Dues

Regular Membership: $150 | Active Duty Enlisted Membership: $75
Active Duty Company Grade Officer Membership: $100 | Active Duty Field Grade Officer Membership: $150
Student Membership: $50 | Lifetime Membership: $750 (or three yearly installments of $250)


Your membership fuels scholarships, youth mentorship, aviation education, and community programs that keep the Tuskegee Airmen’s spirit alive across the Carolinas.

DONATIONS

Help us keep the Red Tails flying high!

The Redtails over the Carolinas Chapter, Tuskegee Airmen Inc. is 100% funded by donations and sponsorships. By lending your financial support, you’ll become a valuable part of investing in the future. We thank you in advance for your support. (All donations are tax deductible.) ​

CORPORATE DONATIONS

Each donor will be recognized on banners, advertisements, and during in person events as well as on our website and newsletters. We will host an event each year in honor of all our members, sponsors, and friends.


AVIATION ADVOCATE
$5,000+

Honors your commitment to sustaining the Tuskegee legacy through major community initiatives.

DONATE

LEGACY GUARDIAN
$2,500

Supports youth aviation programs and scholarships for aspiring pilots and engineers.

DONATE

FLIGHT LEADER
$1,000

Helps fund educational outreach and mentorship opportunities.

DONATE

One-Time or Monthly
$50, $100, $200, $400

Contributes to local events and historical preservation efforts.

DONATE

Please make checks payable to Redtails over the Carolinas Chapter Tuskegee Airman Inc. and mail to:
Redtails over the Carolinas Chapter
2779 South Church | Unit 318 | Burlington, NC 27215

OUR STORY

Red Tails Over the Carolinas connects history with hope. As part of Tuskegee Airmen, Inc., our chapter celebrates the achievements of the Airmen who paved the way for progress in aviation and equality.

We bring their story to life through community outreach, youth programs, and educational initiatives, ensuring their legacy continues to shape leaders and inspire dreamers across the Carolinas. Together, we honor the past while investing in the future — because the Red Tails’ story is still being written.

CLICK THE FOLLOWING TO READ MORE
Who are the Tuskegee Airmen?

National Airspace Museum (Smithsonian)

Before World War II, leaders of the Army Air Corps (predecessor to the modern-day Air Force) barred African Americans from serving in uniform. Facing mounting public pressure in the years before the war, the U.S. government ordered the removal of some restrictions against Black aviators, first by opening civilian training programs in 1939, and then by accepting Black pilots into racially segregated units of the Army Air Corps in 1941.

CLICK THE FOLLOWING TO READ MORE
The Tuskegee Airmen: 332nd Fighter Group’s “Red Tails”

VA Gov

As a Veteran, you understand better than anyone the courage, skill and dedication it takes to serve in the military. Today, we’re turning the spotlight on a group of servicemen who not only displayed these same qualities in abundance, but also broke barriers and paved the way for future generations. They are the Tuskegee Airmen, also known as the “Red Tails” of the 332nd Fighter Group.

CLICK THE FOLLOWING TO READ MORE
History: The Tuskegee Airmen

Tuskegee Museum

The Tuskegee Airmen were America’s first Black military pilots—a group of brave and determined men who shattered racial barriers and helped redefine the future of the U.S. Air Force. During World War II, these airmen demonstrated exceptional skill, intelligence, and patriotism, despite facing systemic discrimination.

CONTACT US

Connect With Red Tails Over the Carolinas

Stay connected with a legacy that continues to uplift generations. Contact our team to learn more about events, membership opportunities, educational programs, and ways to support the mission of the Tuskegee Airmen, Inc. Together, we can keep their story soaring.

We’d love to hear from you! Whether you’re interested in becoming a member, partnering with our programs, or learning more about the legacy of the Tuskegee Airmen, our team is here to help. Reach out today and join us in honoring the past, empowering the present, and inspiring the future.