General Daniel "Chappie" James Museum

General Daniel "Chappie" James Museum

The Chappie James Boyhood Home of Daniel James Jr., who was born on February 11, 1920, in Pensacola, Florida.

Daniel James was the first African American to become a four-star general in the U.S. Air Force.

He graduated from high school in 1937 and went on to college at the Tuskegee Institute, a famous African-American school.

During college, James, nicknamed "Chappie," became interested in flying and became a pilot through the Civilian Pilot Training Program.

After completing the program, he stayed on as an instructor. Facing many obstacles, including the racial prejudices of the times, James fought for a place at military flight school.

Passing the required tests with ease, he completed his training in 1943. During World War II, he served primarily as an instructor, teaching other African Americans in the 99th Pursuit Squadron.