Oldest living of Tuskegee Airmen honored in Memphis for 105th birthday

The oldest living of the famed Tuskegee Airmen celebrated his 105th birthday in Memphis on Sunday.

Sergeant Thomas Franklin Vaughns was honored at Barraque Street Missionary Baptist Church. His birthday was July 7, 1920.

Vaughns served in both World War II and the Korean War. He was a trained mechanic for B-25 bombers.

He was awarded a Congressional Gold Medal in 2006, and a National Defense Service Medal in 2019. He also received a World War II Victory Medal, and an American Campaign Medal.

Vaughn's birthday celebration was attended by local and state dignitaries. Former U.S. President Bill Clinton sent a formal letter of tribute in recognition of Vaughn’s lifelong service.