Honored 2017
Marlon Dewitt Green was born on June 6, 1929 in El Dorado, Arkansas. He attended Xavier High School in New Orleans, Louisiana where he was co-valedictorian.
Green enlisted in the U.S. Air Force in 1948. He went to basic flight training at Randolph Field, Texas and later to multi-engine training at Lake Charles, Louisiana. He piloted B-26 bombers, KC-97 tankers, and the SA-16 Albatross maritime patrol aircraft during his Air Force career.
Marlon decided he would pursue an airline career and began applying to various airlines. He applied to Continental Airlines in Denver and although he had more flight hours than the other candidates he was denied a position. This denial led to a suit brought by the Colorado Anti-discrimination Commission. After being stalled in the state court, the suit was heard by the U.S. Supreme Court which decided in favor of Green in 1963. This action opened the door for people of color to seek employment as professional flight crews.
Marlon Green began work at Continental Air Lines in 1965. Based in Denver, he flew the Vickers Viscount II aircraft and advanced to Captain in 1966. Continental Airlines honored Green’s aviation career in 2010 when they named a new Boeing 737 the “Captain Marlon Green” in his honor.
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