Captain James J. Hyett (1914-2008)

(May 15, 1914 – April 20,2008)

Captain James J. Hyett was born in Philadelphia on May 15, 1914. He was one of four brothers, born to Lewis and Mattie Johnson Hyett. He graduated from Central High School, in Philadelphia, and attended the University of Pennsylvania for one year, where he took courses in time and motion studies. James also studied engineering and drawing at Drexel University, in Philadelphia. 

As a young man, he yearned to become a pilot. He learned to fly airplanes at the Boulevard Airport and later at the Old Start Airport in Langhorne, Pennsylvania. While attending the University of Pennsylvania in the late 1930s, James learned that the U.S. Army was looking at colleges to train men to become pilots at the onset of World War II. He submitted an application, but was told that the program was only for White applicants. However, he was told that if he was really interested, he should contact the Tuskegee Institute in Alabama where minority students can receive aviation training. James submitted his application and was accepted.

Mr. Hyett trained under AAF Enlisted Reserve CPT Program. He served at several locations throughout the United States, but eventually assumed the position of flight instructor and commander of the Tuskegee Flight School 2164BU, where he trained fighter and bomber pilots. He earned the rank of Captain and also taught flying at Texas Air University in Cuero, Texas. There he later met his future wife; they married and moved back to Philadelphia.

Captain Hyett wasted no time in upgrading his commercial certificate to qualify for the airlines, which resulted in ratings of pilot, commercial, single and multi-engine land and sea instrument flight instructor. He submitted his application to the developing commercial/airline industry that was looking for World War II pilots to train in flying big commercial airplanes for consumer’s use in travel. Although he was very well qualified, according to the interviewer, he was denied due to his race. He later found a decent job as a government worker in the U.S. Post Office.

After retiring from the post office, he took up gardening, writing poetry, and sharing his experience as a member of the Tuskegee Airmen. Captain Hyett touched the hearts of many people with his humility and kindness. He believed in honesty and being true to one’s self.

Captain Hyett passed away on April 20, 2008, at the age of 94. He is survived by his daughter and grandson.