About: Roy E. LaGrone
Roy E. LaGrone, a World War II pilot and member of the Tuskegee Airmen, had an illustrious career as a graphic designer, illustrator, art director, graphic coordinator, and painter. His lifelong commitment and passion for telling the untold stories, sacrifices, and contributions of the nation’s first black Army Air Force pilots established him as an artistic spokesman for many who needed to be seen and heard. Through his illustrations and his deep love of flying, he magnificently portrayed his fellow airmen, sealing the images of these great heroic men into the pages of history.
CALS Encyclopedia of Arkansas
Roy E LaGrone was born in Pine Bluff Arkansas on February 1, 1921, to Edward LaGrone (a veteran of WW1 and who was also a fireman for the Cotton belt Railroad) and Gussie LaGrone He attended the segregated school system in Pine Bluff during the 1930s, graduating from Merrill High School. His fascination with flying began as a teenager when he took a short ride in an airplane from a local airfield. The experience steered him toward aviation.He was inducted into the Arkansas Aviation Hall of Fame in 2026.
The Arkansas Aviation Historical Society 2026 Hall of Fame Inductees.
The 41st Annual Hall of Fame Ceremony, November 12th 2026
"Honoring our heritage building bright aviation futures"
The Tuskegee Airmen were the first African American military pilots and support personnel in the U.S. Armed Forces. Formed during World War II, they completed over 15,000 sorties, earned hundreds of military awards, and their combat record contributed to the desegregation of the U.S. military in 1948.
Capturing HEROS
The Journey OF Flight
Gallery shows
The Roy E. LaGrone website, showcasing the work of artistic spokesman and graphic designer Roy E. LaGrone, is part of the CCC. This initiative is generously supported by the CAC and administered by Community Partners, highlighting the importance of artwork and Illustrations that celebrate the legacy of the Tuskegee Airmen. This site was created and is operated by his Grandson Azul Amaral.
