FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Col. Harry E. Ford, Maj. Carrol Woods 'will have huge impact' on recruiting efforts

MAXWELL AFB, Ala. — Two former Tuskegee Airmen are joining the recruiting team for Civil Air Patrol's Alabama Wing.

Col. Harry E. Ford of Maylene, Ala., and Maj. Carrol Woods of Montgomery, Ala., will be assigned to the Alabama Wing staff, according to Alabama Wing Commander Col. John Tilton.

"These are men who made history with their contributions to our country," Colonel Tilton said. "They understand the importance of serving selflessly, and will have a huge impact on both members and potential members. We’re honored to have them as members of the Alabama Wing."

Woods visited CAP National Headquarters at Maxwell AFB, Ala., on Feb. 20. He submitted his application and fingerprints for the screening required of all prospective members. While there, he met with Tilton and CAP Executive Director Al Allenback.

"I always dreamed of flying," Woods said. "It’s a privilege to share that enthusiasm with young people today."

Woods and Ford, who are both 83 years old, will work with Lt. Col. Alfonzo Jackson, the wing's director of recruiting and retention.

"These men are my heroes," Colonel Jackson said. "They’re role models for young people of all ages and all races, and we’re looking forward to having them help us tell the CAP story."

As a member of the Army Air Corps, Woods served in the 100th Fighter Squadron, 332nd Fighter Group. He flew long-range escort bomber and strafing missions in P-47 Thunderbolts and P-51 Mustangs, and was the first black American taken prisoner by the Germans during World War II. He was held captive for seven months and liberated by Patton’s Third Army in 1945.

After the Air Corps integration into the Air Force, Woods was assigned to duty in Japan and Korea. After retiring, he studied electrical engineering at Tuskegee University and later was employed at both Tuskegee and Alabama State universities.

Ford’s military career spanned 31 years, including more than five years in an active Reserve unit. He graduated from Aviation Cadet Training at Tuskegee Army Airfield in 1945 and served as a B-25 Mitchell pilot in the 477th Composite Group. Ford also served in Korea, and by 1953 had earned the aeronautical ratings of navigator, radar observer and bombardier. Ford graduated from Air Force Command and Staff College and went on to serve on the Air Staff at the Pentagon and NATO International Military Staff in Belgium. He retired in 1975 with more than 5,000 flying hours.

"It’s an honor for CAP to have the support of these two men," Allenback said. "They played important roles in our nation’s military history and paved the way for the many black Americans who have contributed so much to our armed forces. They have much to offer our members, especially our cadets, with their wisdom and experience. We know they’ll have a great impact on recruiting and retention for CAP."

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