Last surviving Tuskegee Airman in Rhode Island asks for birthday cards for 100th birthday
PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WJAR) — One special man is celebrating a special milestone next month.
Retired Sgt. Victor W. Butler is believed to be the last surviving Tuskegee Airman in Rhode Island.
Butler told NBC 10 News he finds puzzles calming.
"Just to occupy the time," said Butler.
People may remember the Tuskegee Airmen from the movie "Red Tails."
They were a group of Black pilots and airmen that made history while fighting in World War II.
They broke barriers and led the way for desegregation in the U.S. military.
"At first, I was going to join the Canadian Air Force with a friend of mine, but after I had signed up, my mother and father wouldn't approve of it. So, I joined with the American Air Force," said Butler.
Butler became a mechanic for the Tuskegee Airmen, working on legendary planes while dealing with racism.
"The airfield was very nice. It was the visit to the town that was bad," said Butler.
"Being in Tuskegee, Alabama, it wasn't very acceptable to white people for black soldiers to be walking around," he said.
He has awards, coins, and so much more documenting his accomplishments.
But he's looking for one more thing: birthday cards.
"It's just another day. That's all," said Butler.
Butler is turning 100 next month on May 21, and his wish is birthday cards.
"Oh, I'll read every one of them," said Butler.
As he waits on your cards, he will keep putting together these puzzles and sharing his wisdom.
"Just enjoy life as it is. Be thankful," he said. "I'm thankful that I have a nice wife, and a nice home to live in."
"There are so many people that have lost their home and I am very fortunate to have a nice home and wife and my family who come to visit me often," said Butler.
If you would like to send Butler a birthday card, you can mail it to:
Victor W. Butler
C/O Gary Butler
P.O. box. 3523
Cranston, RI 02910