MAXWELL AIR FORCE BASE, Ala. -- Air University hosted a special screening of the final two episodes of the highly anticipated Apple TV series "Masters of the Air" on March 8, 2024.
"Masters of the Air" is a TV series exploring World War II strategic bombing doctrine, with Maxwell Air Force Base and Air University playing pivotal roles.
Prior to the viewing, a producer and cast members of the show were able to visit the 100th Fighter Squadron, located at Dannelly Field, Ala., to see a red-tail F-35 and a red-tail T-1 from the 99th Flying Training Squadron, a legacy Tuskegee Airmen squadron from Randolph Air Force Base, Tx.
An event like this provides a chance to recognize and salute the dedication and sacrifice Airmen displayed during WWII and shine a light on their ability to quickly develop doctrine during a time when unprecedented advancements were needed to gain air superiority.
The screening, held at the Squadron Officer School’s Polifka Auditorium, consisted mainly of active-duty military, veterans, base leadership, faculty and students filled the hall as the final installments of the series filled the air. This included the yet to be released final episode, which will be released on Apple TV, March 15.
After the screening, the floor was opened to the audience to ask questions to Masters of the Air producer, Kirk Saduski, and actors, Josiah Cross and Branden Cook, about their experiences portraying such an important moment in time, particularly featuring the Tuskegee Airmen. The screening also provided service members an opportunity to ask burning questions regarding what went into both producing and acting in the show.
“This was one of the best experiences of my life,” said Cook, who plays 2nd Lt. Alexander Jefferson in the series. “I always wanted to do something in the military because I do have a passion for the black men and women who did serve in the war, and I feel like their stories are under told. From the beginning to the end, I had the time of my life.”
Families from the 100th Bomb Group and the 332nd Fighter Group were invited to the showing and a social following to give service members time to show their appreciation for their families sacrifices during WWII.
“We just want to express our deep gratitude for the opportunity to share this viewing, this moment, this discussion with you so thank you for making the journey and for being here,” said Col. Abigail Frander, 42nd Air Base Wing deputy commander. “For the families, it’s such an honor to have you here to share this moment with us and to honor the heroism of your family members. We continue to prepare and execute combat every day around the world and we’re inspired by the stories that you tell.”