Who was the first African American pilot in the U.S. Marine Corps?

The first African American pilot in the U.S. Marine Corps was LtGen Frank E. Petersen. His groundbreaking achievement in becoming the first African American to earn a Marine Corps pilot's wings opened doors for future generations of pilots within the Corps and served as a significant milestone in the history of racial integration in the military. Petersen’s legacy extends beyond his role as a pilot; he later became the first African American general officer in the Marine Corps, further demonstrating his impact on military diversity and leadership.

The other individuals listed, while they are noteworthy figures in military history, do not hold the distinction of being the first African American pilot in the Marine Corps. Understanding the contributions and milestones of figures like Petersen helps underscore the evolution of diversity within the military and its significance in broader societal changes.