SENATE RESOLUTION NO. 285

WHEREAS, The Senate of the State of Texas is pleased to recognize the Tuskegee Airmen Texas State Veterans Home in Fort Worth on the occasion of its grand opening, which is taking place on March 22, 2025; and

WHEREAS, The Tuskegee Airmen Texas State Veterans Home is named in honor of the Tuskegee Airmen, an elite group of military aviators who served with unparalleled distinction during World War II; the Tuskegee Airmen were the first all-Black flying group in the United States Armed Forces and completed more than 1,500 missions across North Africa and Europe; and

WHEREAS, Known as the "Red Tails" for the iconic red markings on their aircraft, these courageous airmen demonstrated extraordinary skill and unwavering dedication to serving their country, and their efforts were honored with more than 150 Distinguished Flying Cross awards, 60 Purple Hearts, and Congressional Gold Medals, among numerous other honors; and

WHEREAS, The Tuskegee Airmen not only displayed exceptional skill and valor in combat but also played a pivotal role in breaking racial barriers in the military and paved the way for greater equality and opportunity in the United States; their dedication, sacrifice, and heroism remain an enduring source of inspiration, and every American owes these veterans a tremendous debt of gratitude; and

WHEREAS, The Texas Veterans Land Board has long been committed to ensuring that veterans receive the highest standard of care, and the establishment of 10 Veterans Homes in Texas is a continuation of that mission; this facility will provide skilled nursing care for 120 veterans in four distinct wings, including a specialized memory support unit for veterans with Alzheimer's disease or dementia; and

WHEREAS, The home will also provide a wide range of programs including physical, speech, and occupational therapy and will offer such alternative therapies as animal, art, music, and writing therapy; this holistic approach ensures that veterans receive not only the medical treatment they require but also the relational support and enrichment they need to enjoy their golden years; and

WHEREAS, The Tuskegee Airmen Texas State Veterans Home in Fort Worth stands in tribute to the remarkable legacy and heroism of the Tuskegee Airmen, and it is indeed fitting to celebrate the opening of a facility devoted to caring for the veterans who have so honorably defended the freedoms we hold dear; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED, That the Senate of the State of Texas, 89th Legislature, hereby honor the Tuskegee Airmen and commemorate the opening of the Tuskegee Airmen Texas State Veterans Home in Fort Worth; and, be it further

RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution be prepared in honor of this special occasion.

Hancock

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President of the Senate

I hereby certify that the above Resolution was adopted by the Senate on March 18, 2025.

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Secretary of the Senate

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Member, Texas Senate