WASHINGTON - Retired Air Force Lt. Col. Luke J. Weathers, Jr., a famed Tuskegee Airman decorated with multiple medals in World War II, will be buried Friday at Arlington National Cemetery.
The 113th Wing, dubbed the ‘Capital Guardians' from Joint Base Andrews Naval Air Facility Washington, will perform a four-jet flyover to honor the life and service of Weathers.
A Congressional Gold Medal recipient who shot down two German Fighters, Weathers' story is highlighted - along with dozens of other Tuskegee Airmen - in the new movie "Red Tails," which happens to release in theaters the same day of his burial. The movie details the struggles of the all-black unit and their successes in defending aerial tankers in World War II.
"The Tuskegee Airmen were dedicated heroes who gave so much for this country," said Air Force Brig. Gen. Jeffrey Johnson, 113th Wing commander. "It is an honor to perform a flyover for this brave American."
Weathers earned a Distinguished Flying Cross flying P-51 and P-39 fighters, serving from 1942-1945.
The Weathers family shared their thoughts about the upcoming funeral; "Our family is sincerely humbled and thankful for all the hard work many have done throughout our nation in making this final departure for our beloved Lt. Col. USAF (Ret.) Luke J. Weathers, Jr., an Original Tuskegee Airmen, a reality."
After retiring, Weathers continued to serve his country by educating younger generations about military service and the Tuskegee bond, speaking at youth aviation day events at Joint Base Andrews Naval Air Facility Washington, among others.