LAS CRUCES — James C. Flowers, 110, of Las Cruces was awarded the New Mexico Medal of Merit at his home on March 20 in recognition of a lifetime of service, sacrifice and dedication to his country.
Brigadier General Retired Jamison Herrera, Cabinet Secretary of the New Mexico Department of Veterans' Services, presented the award on behalf of Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham.
Flowers served during World War II from 1940 to 1945 as a first lieutenant and pilot with the 99th Fighter Squadron, part of the 332nd Fighter Group, known as the historic Tuskegee Airmen, the first Black military aviators in the U.S. Armed Forces, helping break racial barriers and pave the way for future generations of service members.
Following his military service, Flowers dedicated his career to education, working as a schoolteacher in New York City. After retiring, he and his wife relocated to New Mexico. His legacy of service continues through his family, which includes six doctors among his children and grandchildren.
Born Dec. 25, 1915, Flowers has witnessed more than a century of American history. Now a resident of Las Cruces, he remains a living testament to the Greatest Generation.
New Mexico proudly honors Flowers for a lifetime of service that not only defended a nation but helped define it for generations to come.
