SENATE MILITARY AND VETERANS' AFFAIRS COMMITTEE

STATEMENT TO

SENATE RESOLUTION No. 110

STATE OF NEW JERSEY

DATED:  FEBRUARY 11, 2021

      The Senate Military and Veterans Affairs Committee reports favorably Senate Resolution No. 110.

      This Senate resolution honors the life of Mr. Malcolm Nettingham.  Mr. Nettingham proudly served this nation while bringing about real, long-lasting racial change. As a member of the Tuskegee Airmen, Mr. Nettingham was part of an elite group of Black men who played a critical role in the Allied victory during World War II and paved the way for desegregation of the United States Armed Forces. 

      Mr. Nettingham was drafted into the United States Army in 1944, completed basic training, and was accepted as a candidate in the Army Air Corps Flight Radio Operator division.  He later became a member of a five-man crew of Black soldiers chosen as part of the first integrated flight radio communications class in the United States Army Air Corps.  He served as a radio operator and gunner in the 617th Squadron, 477th Composite Group on a B-52 Bomber. 

      Mr. Nettingham was honorably discharged in 1946, and spent 32 years working for Communications Measurements Laboratory as a Contract Administrator in the electronics industry, and after retirement, he worked as a radio station engineer for WNJR of Newark, New Jersey.  He remained active in his community, took great pleasure in encouraging young people, and was always ready to serve where needed. 

      As a member of the Tuskegee Airmen, Mr. Nettingham helped pave the way for the full integration of the United States military and in recognition of his service with the Tuskegee Airmen, Mr. Nettingham was awarded the Congressional Gold Medal in 2007. 

      Mr. Nettingham passed away on September 14, 2020, a few days before his 102nd birthday.  As we lose more members of the Greatest Generation each day, it is important to recognize the accomplishments of men like Mr. Nettingham who selflessly served our nation while overcoming racial segregation and prejudice.  He is a symbol of triumph over adversity and loyalty to one’s country.  His legacy will inspire citizens of both this State and this nation for decades to come.