On This Day in History / October 27, 2023 1954: Benjamin O. Davis, Jr., was promoted to Brigadier General, becoming the USAF’s first Black general officer.Lt. Gen. Benjamin O. Davis Jr. played a vital role in opening the skies for Black Airmen. Davis spent more than 35 years in the military, breaking barriers at every level. He served all over the world, fighting against segregation on and off the battlefield.