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PHOTOCOPIED October 2, 2002; NASM PRESERVATION COPY

'Spit and Polish' Negro Colonel Slated for Star Like His Father

WASHINGTON, April 21 (INS)-Air Force officers believe that Negro Col. Benjamin  O. Davis, Jr. 41, of Los Angeles, Calif., should and eventually will get the star of a brigardier general-like his father, retired Brig. Gen. Benjamin O. Davis, Sr.

Air Force officers who have served with him and under him, white and Negro, acclaim the tall (six feet, two inches) handsome flyer-but there are conflicting versions of whether he is something of a martinet or a genial, understanding person.

One former subordinate called him "the most West Pointish of West Pointers." Others said they had been irked at his "spit and polish" policies-he uses the term himself in seriously giving orders.

Davis is credited with always "running a sharp outfit." Men under him expect frequent parades and inspections. They must have blouses buttoned, ties straight, uniforms spotless and be snappy in military courtesy. If he sees sloppiness, a subordinate is on the carpet.

His promotion record supports the belief that the much-decorated Davis is highly regarded by the upper brass. His wartime rise was meteoric-from temporary captain in 1940, to temporary lieutenant colonel, skipping temporary major, in 1942, and to temporary colonel in 1944. He became permanent colonel in 1950.

In the meantime, he flew 60 combat missions in Europe. He headed the 90th Fighter Squadron to North Africa and Italy in 1943. Sent back to command the 332nd Fighter Group at Selfridge Field, Mich., he took it to Italy and commanded it until June, 1945.

Responsible jobs continued after the war. He was commander of Godman Field, Kentucky of Lockbourne Air Base at Columbus, Ohio and before being assigned to Korea, last July, was deputy chief of staff for operations branch.