The Life of Benjamin O. Davis Sr. By KStutko Jul 1, 1877 Happy Birthday Period: Jul 1, 1877 to Nov 26, 1970 Life of Benjamin O. Davis Sr. Apr 4, 1889 Joined as a volunteer lieutenant in the Spanish-American War Oct 25, 1940 made brigadier general (First African American general Jul 31, 1941 Retired but was called back for active duty the next day Jan 29, 1946 Heavly influced the full intgration of the Army Jan 25, 1948 Benjamin O, Davis sr. left the army May 2, 1948 was assistant to the Army inspector General Aug 28, 1955 Son Benjamin O, Davis Jr. became the first African American Air Force General Nov 26, 1970 Dead