Benjamin O. Davis Jr. 

Davis’ enrollment came at a time when discrimination and racism were near their all-time highs. Even though the Armed Forces were mostly separate from society, Davis faced difficulties during his career. This is evident as shown by his years at West Point “In his four years at West Point, no one would room with Cadet Davis and no one would speak to him outside the line of duty. But he surmounted the bigotry and isolation and graduated 35th in a class of 276, only the fourth black graduate in the military academy's history” (“Gen.”). Davis’ years at West Point reflect his bravery and tolerance against anti-black racism, and his unending motivation to succeed in and diversify his field. Davis also managed to find ways to cope with discrimination in the USAF: “‘Living as a prisoner in solitary confinement for four years had not destroyed my personality, nor poisoned my attitude toward other people,’ he would write in recalling his thoughts upon graduating. ‘I had even managed to keep a sense of humor about the situation; when my father told me of my many supporters, the many people who were pulling for me, I said, ‘It's a pity none of them were at West Point’” (“Gen.”). During his time in West Point, the silent treatment he received did not set him back. His steely attitude helped him power through his struggles and emerge as a more responsible and well-thinking human being. Like his father, General Davis struggled against racism. He was ostracized at West Point, barred from commanding white troops, and turned away from segregated officers' clubs during war time (“Gen”). Despite being left out and pushed away from being able to pursue the same opportunities as his white colleagues, Davis continued to prove his worthiness and leadership skills.

Davis went farther than any other person of color before him and served as a leader for everyone after him. “[He] received many decorations during his career, including two Distinguished Service Medals and a Silver Star. On December 9, 1998, Davis was awarded his fourth general’s star (making him a general of the highest order within the U.S. military). He was the first African American to be so honoured in retirement” (“Benjamin”). Davis’ military achievements reflect his excellence in the military. He is also the first person of color to be honored with a fourth general star, further proving how he became a torchbearer for other people of color. Davis also put crucial work into the structure of the USAF: “In 1948, President Truman ordered integration of the Armed Forces, and Davis helped draft the Air Force plan for implementation” (“General”). Davis directly helped integrate people of color into the Armed Forces, essentially paving the way for future generations of minorities to join. After nearly 40 years of military service, Davis had not yet finished serving his country. Hee took on the role of assistant secretary at the U.S. Department of Transportation where he continued to make significant contributions to the nation for another four years (Susan). Davis did not tie himself to the military. His continued efforts to serve his country reflected his revolutionary persona.