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by Kathleen F. Esmiol (Author)
Growing up in Roanoke, Virginia, with dreams of becoming a pilot, Colonel James E.P. Randall was called to active duty during World War II in 1945. Following basic training, he was assigned to Tuskegee Army Airfield in Alabama, but his life took unexpected twists and turns as he eventually earned the coveted wings of a U.S. Air Force fighter pilot. In a career that spanned 31.5 years of adventure, Randall logged more than 7350 hours of flight over land and sea. He piloted aircraft across the Atlantic 8 times and across the Pacific an additional 8 times. He flew 75 combat missions in the F-51 Mustang over Korea and 44 combat missions over North Vietnam before being shot down over the outskirts of Hanoi in his F-105 Thunderchief. Airborne once again, he served as an F-111 test pilot, respected by engineers as well as his commanders. Accepted as a Tuskegee Airmen by the national organization, Randall was repeatedly recognized for his prowess as a pilot during his military career, but that was not the total measure of the man. He was also defined by his character and how he lived up to the high standards set by his parents--as a man, take on responsibility and be accountable; continue to educate yourself; be a good father; excel as a representative of your culture despite adversity. In an action-packed life full of both tragedy and triumph, Randall's inspiring story is one of commitment to family and country, duty and honor a Legacy of Valor.
