The First Ladies
by Marie Benedict
Contents
Chapter 67
Overview
Eleanor Roosevelt publicly commits to fly with Chief Flight Instructor Anderson at Tuskegee, turning the visit into a deliberate push for Black pilots’ combat deployment. She tells the press the flight proves their safety and readiness. Mary, too ill to join, orchestrates and witnesses the moment, noting Thompson’s fury and reflecting on Eleanor’s transformation and their partnership’s power.
Summary
At Tuskegee, Eleanor Roosevelt secures a pilot’s agreement to take her up. Mary McLeod Bethune declines an invitation to join due to worsening lungs and mobility, recognizing that a coughing fit could jeopardize the moment. Despite regret, Mary commits to supporting the plan from the ground.
Instructors suit Eleanor in flight gear as Mary considers the power of a shared image but accepts her limits. Before boarding, Eleanor and Chief Flight Instructor Anderson hear Mary and Eleanor’s purpose: to help get Tuskegee pilots into active duty. The intent clarifies the stakes—this flight is a public argument for deployment.
Eleanor climbs aboard with Chief Anderson and addresses reporters: “If it’s safe for the First Lady to fly with a colored pilot, then it is safe for these expertly trained colored pilots to fight in the war.” The press swarms; Lieutenant Colonel Thompson reddens with anger as the taboo is shattered. The plane taxis, and Mary waves, moved by the moment’s symbolic and practical weight.
As the aircraft ascends, Mary thinks beyond the stunt to Eleanor’s growth—from shy political spouse to global actor who influences policy and public sentiment. Though grounded by illness, Mary imagines soaring with Eleanor, reaffirming that their shared work and friendship make this historic step possible.
Who Appears
- Mary McLeod BethuneNarrator; too ill to fly; orchestrates and witnesses the flight; reflects on Eleanor’s growth and their mission.
- Eleanor RooseveltFirst Lady who flies with Chief Anderson; publicly frames the flight as proof Black pilots should see combat.
- Chief Flight Instructor AndersonTuskegee’s chief instructor who pilots Eleanor’s flight; emblem of the pilots’ readiness for combat.
- Lieutenant Colonel ThompsonBase officer opposed to integration; furious as Eleanor defies precedent by flying with a Black pilot.