Asian American, Native Hawaiian, & Pacific Islander Heritage Month is a time when we reflect on the boundless tapestry of cultures across our nation and celebrate the inspiring contributions of Americans to our history. I'd like to share the story of an American Airman whose story I learned about later in my career but wish I had known a lot earlier.
Sabu Dastagir was an Indian American actor who was best known for his works in Hollywood during the 1930s and 1940s. He was born in 1924 in Mysore, India, and was discovered by a producer at the age of 13. Known as "Sabu," he starred in film roles such as "The Thief of Baghdad" and Rudyard Kipling's "The Jungle Book." He eventually earned his U.S. citizenship, and in 1960 Sabu was inducted into the Hollywood "Walk of Fame."
Like other Hollywood actors during World War II, such as Jimmy Stewart and Clark Gable, Sabu chose to enlist in the Army Air Forces. He served as a tail gunner, primarily in the Pacific Theater with the 370th Bomb Squadron, part of the 307th Bomb Group. During this period, Corporal Dastagir flew dozens of combat missions. For his valor, he was awarded five air medals, as well as the Distinguished Flying Cross with "Valor," one of the highest honors that can be bestowed upon an Airman.
