Needham Roberts

Needham Roberts was a United States Army soldier and one of the first African Americans to serve as a fighter pilot in the U.S. military. He joined the Army Air Service during World War I, breaking racial barriers at a time when opportunities were limited for Black Americans. Roberts trained as a pilot but did not see combat before the war ended. His service helped pave the way for greater integration and recognition of African Americans in military aviation. His story highlights both the challenges and progress of racial equality in the U.S. armed forces.