The U.S. Air Force Art Program Collection honored Indian American actor and WWII hero Sgt. Sabu Dastagir with a portrait by artist June Xu, unveiled on November 12 in the Pentagon. The ceremony included U.S. Air Force Academy cadets of South Asian descent, who reflected on Dastagir’s legacy. Dastagir, a Hollywood star in the 1930s and 1940s known for films like The Jungle Book, served in the U.S. Army Air Corps during WWII after becoming a citizen in 1944. He completed numerous combat missions as a tail gunner and received five Air Medals and the Distinguished Flying Cross with Valor before his death in 1963 at age 40. Cadet Anoushka Rishi praised his courage, stating, “Sgt. Dastagir embodied great sacrifice in his service to our country.” Assistant Secretary of the Air Force Dr. Ravi Chaudhary highlighted the importance of sharing Dastagir’s story, noting its personal significance and its role in inspiring future generations.
For Cadet Rishi, the event represented a significant affirmation of her cultural identity, particularly as she had previously noted a deficiency in South Asian representation within the military prior to her arrival at the Academy. Motivated by her engagement with the Academy’s South Asian community, she, along with fellow cadets, is in the process of establishing a Diversity of South Asia Club aimed at celebrating and promoting their cultural heritage. Aspiring to become a pilot, Rishi emphasized the importance of acknowledging one’s origins, stating, “While it may be behind us and we sometimes forget that it is there, [heritage] is with us in every step of our journey.” The unveiling of Dastagir’s portrait serves as a significant reminder that the military’s strength is derived not only from its resources but also from its diversity and cohesion. His previously lesser-known narrative now stands as a source of inspiration for future generations of South Asians and all Americans alike.
