Tuskegee Airmen, Charles P. Bailey, Honored with Street Dedication
DeLand, Fla. (May 30, 2025) - One mission of the CAF RISE ABOVE Squadron is to honor the legacy of the Tuskegee Airmen. Through educational outreach, the RISE ABOVE traveling exhibit, and original short films, they share the courageous story of the groundbreaking aviators who helped change the world of aviation.
As the Squadron travels across the country sharing these powerful stories, communities nationwide are finding meaningful ways to honor the Tuskegee Airmen in their hometowns. One recent tribute came from the City of DeLand, Florida — a heartfelt recognition of one of its most distinguished residents and a true American hero.
The city dedicated a new roadway Wednesday in honor of one of its most distinguished residents — Lt. Charles P. Bailey, a decorated Tuskegee Airman and one of the first African American combat pilots in U.S. history.
The newly named Charles P. Bailey Road is in the city’s growing Northwest Industrial Business Park by the DeLand Municipal Airport and is home to major employers, such as DaVita Labs. The road intersects with Eidson Drive, which was recently extended to improve connectivity between the business park and State Road 11 — an infrastructure improvement aimed at supporting DeLand’s continued economic growth.
Born in Punta Gorda, Bailey went on to make history during World War II as a member of the famed Tuskegee Airmen. He was the first Floridian to join the pioneering group of Black military aviators who shattered racial barriers in the U.S. Armed Forces. Bailey flew 133 combat missions and was awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross for his extraordinary service.
After his military service, Bailey returned to the area and obtained his bachelor’s degree in elementary education from Bethune-Cookman College, and became a school teacher in DeLand.
“Charles P. Bailey is a shining example of bravery, determination, and excellence, not just for DeLand, but for the entire nation,” DeLand Mayor Christopher M. Cloudman stated in a news release. “Naming this road in his honor ensures that future generations will remember the legacy of a man who helped change the course of history, and who once called this city home.”
The road naming ceremony was attended by Mr. Bailey’s two sons, James Bailey and Charles Bailey Jr., county and city leaders, and community members. To mark the occasion, the sign was officially installed by Public Works, and a commemorative sign was given to the family.
