3 Images

Benjamin O. Davis led the all-Black 99th and later the 332nd Fighter Group in Europe during World War II. His inspired and disciplined leadership played a major role in the Tuskegee Airmen’s success. Under Davis, the 332nd escorted American bombers in missions over the Mediterranean and central Europe.The distinctive “Spitfire” patch became the 332nd Fighter Group’s insignia.

Display Status

This object is not on display at the National Air and Space Museum. It is either on loan or in storage.

Object Details

Type

AWARDS-Insignia

Physical Description

Round golden yellow felt fabric patch with embroidered black panther spitting fir, embattled blue stripes above and below panther. "SPIT FIRE" in black on golden yellow embroidered banner at bottom. 332nd Squadron also known as Tuskegee Airmen.

Dimensions

3-D (L x W x H) (?g): 12.8 × 12.8 × 0.3cm (5 1/16 × 5 1/16 × 1/8 in.)

Materials

wool fabric, silk thread

Inventory Number

I20251512001

Credit Line

Lent by National Air and Space Museum Archives

Data Source

National Air and Space Museum

Restrictions & Rights

Usage conditions apply
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