On this date in 1943, Lt. Charles B. Hall, a member of the legendary Tuskegee Airmen, became the first Black pilot to shoot down an enemy aircraft during World War II.

Hall, from Brazil, Indiana, was flying a P-40 Warhawk fighter plane during a mission over Sicily when he downed a German Focke-Wulf Fw 190. His achievement was a major milestone, demonstrating the skill and bravery of the all-Black 99th Fighter Squadron, which had faced skepticism about their effectiveness in combat.

For his actions, Hall was awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross, making history not only as a fighter pilot but also as a trailblazer for African Americans in the U.S. military.

His success and that of the Tuskegee Airmen helped pave the way for the eventual desegregation of the U.S. armed forces in 1948.