The Top 5 Aces of the 332nd Also Known as “Red Tails”

The 332nd Fighter Group, better known as the “Red Tails,” was a celebrated unit of African-American pilots who fought during World War II. They gained recognition not only for their impressive combat performance but also for breaking racial barriers in the U.S. Army Air Forces. As part of the Tuskegee Airmen, the 332nd Fighter Group faced both combat and prejudice, yet their contribution to the war effort and their legacy continue to inspire. Among their ranks were several outstanding fighter pilots who became aces by downing five or more enemy aircraft. Below are five of the most accomplished aces from the 332nd Fighter Group.

1. Lee Archer

Lee Archer was one of the most distinguished pilots of the 332nd Fighter Group. He flew over 169 combat missions and was officially credited with four aerial victories, though many historians argue that a bureaucratic error prevented him from being recognized as an ace with five kills. Despite this discrepancy, Archer was one of the most skilled pilots in the group, earning a Distinguished Flying Cross for his bravery and precision in combat.

During his service, Archer often engaged enemy aircraft in dogfights over Europe, using his P-51 Mustang fighter plane to great effect. His experiences, like those of many Tuskegee Airmen, were shaped not only by the dangers of combat but also by the segregation he faced back home. His success in the skies was a powerful statement against the racial prejudices of the time. After the war, Archer’s legacy grew as he became a symbol of the skill and determination of the Tuskegee Airmen.

2. Joseph Elsberry

Another top ace of the 332nd was Joseph Elsberry, who completed a total of 56 combat missions. Known for his calm demeanor under pressure, Elsberry distinguished himself during his service by destroying three German aircraft in a single day in July 1944. His flying skills and tactical awareness helped him stay ahead of the enemy, and his achievements were widely admired by his fellow pilots.

Elsberry’s success was remarkable not only because of his individual skill but also because of the odds stacked against him. Fighting in a segregated military, he and his fellow pilots were given inferior equipment and fewer opportunities for advancement. Yet, Elsberry’s determination and courage allowed him to excel despite these obstacles. His contributions were part of what made the 332nd one of the most respected fighter groups in the war.

3. Edward L. Toppins

Edward L. Toppins was another accomplished ace from the 332nd Fighter Group, known for his outstanding flying skills and leadership. By the end of the war, Toppins was credited with four enemy aircraft destroyed in aerial combat, along with several more on the ground. His expertise in handling the P-51 Mustang, combined with his tactical knowledge, allowed him to outmaneuver enemy pilots during critical missions.

Toppins’ combat record made him one of the most successful pilots in the unit. However, like many of the Red Tails, his achievements went beyond the number of planes shot down. His presence as a leader and mentor to younger pilots played a crucial role in maintaining morale and discipline within the group. Toppins’ contributions helped ensure the success of many missions, both in terms of combat and in breaking down the racial barriers that persisted within the U.S. military.

4. Roscoe C. Brown Jr.

Roscoe Brown Jr. was another notable member of the 332nd Fighter Group, best known for being one of the first pilots to shoot down a German jet aircraft. During his service, Brown flew over 68 combat missions and was credited with several aerial victories. His skill as a pilot was widely recognized, and he played an important role in escorting bombers on dangerous missions deep into enemy territory.

Brown’s achievements were significant, not just because of the planes he shot down but also because of his role in the broader mission of the Red Tails. His leadership and ability to remain calm under pressure made him an invaluable asset to the 332nd. After the war, Brown continued to contribute to society, earning a PhD and becoming a professor, but his legacy as a pilot remains one of his most lasting accomplishments.

5. Charles McGee

Charles McGee was one of the longest-serving pilots in the history of the U.S. Air Force, flying in three major conflicts: World War II, the Korean War, and the Vietnam War. During World War II, McGee completed 137 combat missions and earned a reputation as a highly skilled and effective pilot. While not credited with five kills during the war, McGee’s contributions to the 332nd Fighter Group were substantial, and his overall career as a fighter pilot spanned decades.

McGee’s impact on the 332nd was immense. He was known for his leadership, his flying skills, and his ability to inspire his fellow pilots. His service to the United States continued long after World War II, but his role in the Red Tails cemented his place in history. McGee’s story is one of perseverance, dedication, and a commitment to breaking down barriers in both the military and society.