Mildred Hemmons Carter

Mildred Hemmons Carter (1913–2011) was a pioneering Black American aviator who defied racial and gender barriers to pursue her passion for flying. Born in Alabama, Carter faced discrimination and limited opportunities due to segregation and sexism. Despite these challenges, she became the first known Black American woman in Alabama to earn a pilot's license in 1941.Carter's love for aviation led her to work in support of the Tuskegee Airmen, a group of Black American military pilots who served during World War II. Although she was not allowed to fly combat missions due to her gender, Carter aided the Tuskegee Airmen's mission as a civilian. In addition to administrative work, she rigged parachutes and operated a bulldozer to clear airstrips.After the war, Carter continued to advocate for civil rights and worked as an educator, inspiring future generations of Black American fliers. At the age of 90 in 2011 she was honorarily inducted as member of the Women Airforce Service Pilots the WASPs.The Joy Trip Project celebrates the enduring legacy of Black American History. The Unhidden Minute is part of the Unhidden Podcast Project supported through a National Geographic Explorer Grant from the National Geographic Society, with the cooperation of the National Park Service. This series elevates the untold stories of Black American historical figures, events and cultural contributions.#unhiddenblackhistory #NationalParkService #yourparkstory #NationalGeographic #unhiddenminute This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit jamesedwardmills.substack.com/subscribe