On Saturday, June 16, the Central Westbury Civic Association (CWCA) will pay tribute to a Westbury resident who was and still is a member of the famed 99th Fighter Squadron in World War II, better known as the Tuskegee Airmen. Lieutenant Colonel Spann Watson, USAF, Retired, was among the first to be given the privilege to defend this country during World War II.

Since that time, and during a military career that spanned more than 20 years, LTC Watson has distinguished himself, and has become a true Legend of Aviation for the United States Armed Forces.

After completing his service with the United States Air Force, Watson went to work for the Civil Aeronautics Administration, which later became the Federal Aviation Administration.

LTC Watson's great knowledge of radar, which was still a fairly new device, was instrumental in his leading the way to set up and organize The Air Traffic Control system that is still used today.

This recognition ceremony, which many felt was well overdue, will add another chapter to the dedicated efforts of LTC Watson and the pilots of the 99th Fighter Squadron. It is the only unit that can proudly say that, during WWII, no bomber they covered was ever lost to enemy action.

The Salute and Tribute to LTC Watson, distinguished member of the Central Westbury Civic Association and the Westbury community, will be held from noon until 3:30 p.m. at the International Buffet Bar and Grill, located at 1100 Stewart Avenue, Garden City. The event is also in support of the CWCA Scholarship Fund. Tickets are available, at a cost of $20 each, by contacting Mannie Sweat, CWCA president, at 333-1290 or Lois Cobb, vice president, at 333-2009.