Those We Lost — July 4

Honoring those we lost on July 4 — remembered for what they gave, and for what they left behind.

Benjamin O. Davis Jr.

Full name: Benjamin Oliver Davis Jr.

Born December 18, 1912 — died July 4, 2002

U.S. Air Force general, Tuskegee Airmen commander, military pioneer, and first Black general officer in the U.S. Air Force.

Davis commanded the Tuskegee Airmen and helped prove the skill, discipline, and leadership of Black military pilots during World War II. His career challenged military segregation and helped change the future of the United States armed forces.

Ted Rhodes

Real name: Theodore Rhodes

Born November 9, 1913 — died July 4, 1969

Professional golfer, barrier-breaking athlete, and Black golf pioneer.

Rhodes was one of the leading Black golfers of his era and fought against exclusion in professional golf. His career helped prepare the way for later Black players, including Lee Elder, who would break one of golf’s most visible barriers at the Masters.