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Air Force Black History Month: A Legacy of Service and Struggle
Author: Dr. Evelyn Reed, PhD, Professor of History at the Air Force Academy, specializing in African American military history and Civil Rights era studies.
Keywords: Air Force Black History Month, Black Airmen, African American Air Force, Military History, Diversity in the Air Force, Black History Month, Air Force Heritage, Inclusion in the Military
Abstract: This article explores the significance of Air Force Black History Month, acknowledging the remarkable contributions of Black airmen throughout history while simultaneously addressing the ongoing challenges of racial inequality and the pursuit of true inclusion within the Air Force.
Introduction: February, designated as Black History Month, offers a crucial opportunity for reflection and celebration. Within the context of the United States Air Force, Air Force Black History Month takes on a particularly poignant significance. It’s a time to honor the courageous individuals who, despite facing systemic racism and discrimination, bravely served their nation, shaping the Air Force into the institution it is today. This examination delves into the history of Black involvement in the Air Force, highlighting both the monumental achievements and the persistent struggles that continue to demand attention.
H1: The Early Years: Breaking Barriers in a Segregated Military
The early years of the Air Force were deeply marked by segregation. Black Americans, despite their patriotism and willingness to serve, were often relegated to supporting roles, excluded from piloting and leadership positions. Air Force Black History Month must acknowledge this painful reality. The Tuskegee Airmen, a group of African American pilots who distinguished themselves during World War II, serve as a powerful symbol of resilience and triumph against the odds. Their exceptional performance, despite facing prejudice both within and outside the military, shattered stereotypes and paved the way for future generations of Black aviators. However, even their extraordinary achievements couldn't fully erase the pervasive racism that permeated the military at the time.
H2: The Civil Rights Movement and its Impact on the Air Force
The Civil Rights Movement of the 1950s and 60s fundamentally altered the landscape of the American military. The fight for equality extended to the armed forces, leading to the gradual desegregation of the Air Force. Air Force Black History Month reminds us of the tireless activism and sacrifices made by countless individuals who fought for integration and equal opportunities. This period saw increased opportunities for Black airmen, although progress was slow and uneven, and institutional racism persisted in subtle and overt ways.
H3: Modern Challenges and Opportunities in the Air Force
While significant progress has been made, Air Force Black History Month should also serve as a platform to address the persistent challenges faced by Black airmen today. Issues such as racial bias in promotions, disparities in access to leadership roles, and the pervasiveness of microaggressions continue to hinder the full inclusion of Black personnel. The Air Force needs to actively confront these problems through robust diversity and inclusion initiatives. This involves not only implementing policies but also fostering a culture of understanding, empathy, and respect.
H4: Celebrating Achievements and Inspiring Future Generations
Air Force Black History Month is not solely about acknowledging past injustices; it's also about celebrating the remarkable achievements of Black airmen throughout history and inspiring future generations. From the Tuskegee Airmen to modern-day leaders and innovators, countless Black individuals have made invaluable contributions to the Air Force. Their stories serve as powerful examples of dedication, perseverance, and excellence. By highlighting these achievements, we can inspire and empower current and future generations of Black airmen to reach their full potential.
H5: The Role of Education and Awareness in Air Force Black History Month
Education and awareness are critical components of Air Force Black History Month. The Air Force needs to invest in comprehensive educational programs that teach the full history of Black involvement in the military, including the challenges and triumphs. This education should not be limited to a single month but integrated into ongoing training and professional development programs. Increased awareness of unconscious bias, cultural sensitivity, and inclusive leadership practices is crucial to fostering a truly equitable environment.
Conclusion:
Air Force Black History Month provides a vital opportunity for reflection, celebration, and recommitment to the pursuit of a more equitable and inclusive Air Force. While we celebrate the remarkable contributions of Black airmen throughout history, we must also confront the persistent challenges that hinder the full realization of equality and inclusion. By acknowledging the past, celebrating present achievements, and actively working towards a more equitable future, the Air Force can strengthen its bonds of unity and ensure that all its members can thrive and reach their full potential.
FAQs:
1. What is the significance of the Tuskegee Airmen in Air Force Black History Month? The Tuskegee Airmen represent a pivotal moment, showcasing exceptional skill and courage while battling racism. Their success challenged stereotypes and paved the way for integration.
2. What are some ongoing challenges for Black airmen in the Air Force? Challenges include racial bias in promotions, lack of representation in leadership, and the prevalence of microaggressions.
3. How can the Air Force improve diversity and inclusion? Through robust initiatives, fostering a culture of understanding, comprehensive educational programs, and addressing unconscious bias.
4. What role does education play in Air Force Black History Month? Education is crucial to understanding the complete history, fostering awareness of challenges, and promoting inclusive practices.
5. How can Air Force Black History Month inspire future generations? By highlighting achievements, inspiring future Black airmen, and demonstrating the power of perseverance.
6. Are there specific programs within the Air Force dedicated to diversity and inclusion? Yes, many programs focus on mentorship, leadership development, and cultural awareness training. Information can be found on the Air Force official website.
7. How does Air Force Black History Month differ from broader Black History Month celebrations? While aligned with the broader commemoration, Air Force Black History Month specifically focuses on the contributions and experiences of Black individuals within the Air Force.
8. What are some resources for learning more about Black history in the Air Force? The Air Force's official website, historical archives, and academic institutions offer valuable resources.
9. How can I participate in Air Force Black History Month events and initiatives? Check your base's calendar for events and look for opportunities to participate in discussions and educational activities.
Related Articles:
1. "The Tuskegee Airmen: A Legacy of Courage and Resilience": A detailed account of the history and impact of the Tuskegee Airmen.
2. "Breaking Barriers: Black Women in the Air Force": Explores the experiences and contributions of Black women in the Air Force.
3. "Diversity and Inclusion in the Modern Air Force: Challenges and Opportunities": Analyzes current issues and proposes solutions for a more equitable Air Force.
4. "The Untold Stories: African American Airmen in the Vietnam War": Focuses on the experiences of Black airmen during the Vietnam conflict.
5. "From Segregation to Integration: The Evolution of the Air Force's Racial Policies": Traces the historical progression of racial policies within the Air Force.
6. "Microaggressions in the Air Force: Impacts and Solutions": Examines the impact of microaggressions on Black airmen and strategies for addressing them.
7. "Leadership and Diversity: Fostering Inclusive Environments in the Air Force": Discusses leadership's role in promoting diversity and inclusion.
8. "Celebrating Success: Profiles of Outstanding Black Air Force Leaders": Showcases the achievements of exceptional Black leaders in the Air Force.
9. "Air Force Black History Month Events and Initiatives: A Guide for Participation": Provides a practical guide for individuals wishing to engage with Air Force Black History Month activities.
Publisher: Air Force Magazine, the official publication of the Air Force Association, a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting aerospace power and supporting the Air Force. Air Force Magazine enjoys a strong reputation for credible reporting and analysis on Air Force-related matters.
Editor: Col. (Ret.) John Smith, former Air Force pilot with extensive experience in strategic planning and a deep understanding of Air Force history and culture.
| air force black history month: Blacks in the Army Air Forces During World War II Alan M. Osur, 1977 This book is based upon a Ph. D. dissertation written by an Air Force officer who studied at the University of Denver. Currently an Associate Professor of History at the Air Force Academy, Major Osur's account relates how the leadership in the War Department and the U.S. Army Air Forces (USAAF) tried to deal with the problem of race and the prejudices which were reflected in the bulk of American society. It tells a story of black racial protests and riots which such attitudes and discrimination provoked. The author describes many of the discriminatory actions taken against black airmen, whose goal was equality of treatment and opportunities as American citizens. He also describes the role of black pilots as they fought in the Mediterranean theater of operations against the Axis powers. In his final chapters, he examines the continuing racial frictions within the Army Air Forces which led to black servicemen protests and riots in 1945 at several installations. |
| air force black history month: A Concise History of the U.S. Air Force Stephen Lee McFarland, 1997 Except in a few instances, since World War II no American soldier or sailor has been attacked by enemy air power. Conversely, no enemy soldier orsailor has acted in combat without being attacked or at least threatened by American air power. Aviators have brought the air weapon to bear against enemies while denying them the same prerogative. This is the legacy of the U.S. AirForce, purchased at great cost in both human and material resources.More often than not, aerial pioneers had to fight technological ignorance, bureaucratic opposition, public apathy, and disagreement over purpose.Every step in the evolution of air power led into new and untrodden territory, driven by humanitarian impulses; by the search for higher, faster, and farther flight; or by the conviction that the air way was the best way. Warriors have always coveted the high ground. If technology permitted them to reach it, men, women andan air force held and exploited it-from Thomas Selfridge, first among so many who gave that last full measure of devotion; to Women's Airforce Service Pilot Ann Baumgartner, who broke social barriers to become the first Americanwoman to pilot a jet; to Benjamin Davis, who broke racial barriers to become the first African American to command a flying group; to Chuck Yeager, a one-time non-commissioned flight officer who was the first to exceed the speed of sound; to John Levitow, who earned the Medal of Honor by throwing himself over a live flare to save his gunship crew; to John Warden, who began a revolution in air power thought and strategy that was put to spectacular use in the Gulf War.Industrialization has brought total war and air power has brought the means to overfly an enemy's defenses and attack its sources of power directly. Americans have perceived air power from the start as a more efficient means of waging war and as a symbol of the nation's commitment to technology to master challenges, minimize casualties, and defeat adversaries. |
| air force black history month: The Tuskegee Airmen Story Homan, Lynn M., 2002-09-30 The Tuskegee Airmen not only flew 1,500 successful missions in World War II,but also laid the groundwork for an end to unfair practices banning black menfrom certain military professions.While playing at their grandparentshouse one day, Joshua and Kristadiscover a World War II uniform, helmet, and medals. Their grandfather shareswith them the story of his proud days as a member of America�s first all-blackflying squadron.When the Tuskegee Experience began in 1931, officials believed black peoplewere incapable of learning to fly an airplane. The Tuskegee airmen proved themwrong, and served as a sterling example of what a people--thought best suited tojanitorial work, cooking, and manual labor--could do.About The IllustratorIllustrator Rosalie M. Shepherd is a landscape and portrait painter, workswith oil, charcoal, and watercolor, and has worked extensively as a graphicdesigner. |
| air force black history month: African-American Life on the Southern Hunting Plantation James "Jack" Hadley, 2000 By the early 1900s, virtually all of the rich plantation land in the Red Hills between Thomasville, Georgia, and Tallahassee, Florida, had been converted to quail-hunting land for the pleasure of Northern owners and their guests. To operate these large specialized plantations, a skilled management and talented and industrious work force was needed. Within these pages are the stories of fifteen African Americans who were closely involved in plantation life in the first half of the century. Explored are the unique relationships between the plantation owners and their employees, and between families black and white. Vintage images depict the various tasks performed by the African Americans on the plantation, as well as the recreational activities they enjoyed. Told in the voices of those who lived and worked on the plantations, this unique collection of oral histories will serve as a valuable educational tool for generations to come. |
| air force black history month: Freedom Flyers J. Todd Moye, 2010-04-14 As the country's first African American military pilots, the Tuskegee Airmen fought in World War II on two fronts: against the Axis powers in the skies over Europe and against Jim Crow racism and segregation at home. Although the pilots flew more than 15,000 sorties and destroyed more than 200 German aircraft, their most far-reaching achievement defies quantification: delivering a powerful blow to racial inequality and discrimination in American life. In this inspiring account of the Tuskegee Airmen, historian J. Todd Moye captures the challenges and triumphs of these brave pilots in their own words, drawing on more than 800 interviews recorded for the National Park Service's Tuskegee Airmen Oral History Project. Denied the right to fully participate in the U.S. war effort alongside whites at the beginning of World War II, African Americans--spurred on by black newspapers and civil rights organizations such as the NAACP--compelled the prestigious Army Air Corps to open its training programs to black pilots, despite the objections of its top generals. Thousands of young men came from every part of the country to Tuskegee, Alabama, in the heart of the segregated South, to enter the program, which expanded in 1943 to train multi-engine bomber pilots in addition to fighter pilots. By the end of the war, Tuskegee Airfield had become a small city populated by black mechanics, parachute packers, doctors, and nurses. Together, they helped prove that racial segregation of the fighting forces was so inefficient as to be counterproductive to the nation's defense. Freedom Flyers brings to life the legacy of a determined, visionary cadre of African American airmen who proved their capabilities and patriotism beyond question, transformed the armed forces--formerly the nation's most racially polarized institution--and jump-started the modern struggle for racial equality. |
| air force black history month: Black London Avril Nanton, Jody Burton, 2021-07-08 · Discover the historical richness and symbolism throughout London that tells the story of Black history, from the Tudor period to present day · A complete travel guide to the people, places, and landmarks in London that have shaped Black history · Details more than 120 historical sites all over London, including the Nelson Mandela Statue, Cleopatra’s Needle, the Black Lives Matter mural, and so much more · Avril Nanton is a qualified London tour guide and Black history historian who offers lectures and tours on Black history in the London area · Jody Burton read Caribbean studies and is a librarian and bibliophile with an interest in Black history and art |
| air force black history month: Black Wings William J. Powell, 1934 |
| air force black history month: Segregated Skies National Geographic Kids, 2022-01-06 It was 1964 and black men didn't fly commercial jets. But David Harris was about to change that... |
| air force black history month: Two Souls Indivisible James S. Hirsch, 2004 An unforgettable true story, Two Souls Indivisible stirringly recounts the forging of a legendary, heroic bond between two soldiers. Fred Cherry and Porter Halyburton first met in their shared cell in a brutal POW camp in Vietnam. Cherry, an air force pilot, was badly injured after his plane crashed; he became the first black officer to be captured by the North Vietnamese. Halyburton, a young navy flier, was a naive white southerner thrown in as Cherry's cellmate. Their captors hoped close quarters would inflame American-bred racial tensions and break both men. Instead, American integrity and honor flourished, and as Cherry was nursed back to health, a friendship grew strong. The intense connection, powerfully reported by James S. Hirsch, would sustain both men through the war and throughout their lives. Inspiring, heartbreaking, remarkable, and never more timely, Two Souls Indivisible shows how good people can achieve greatness in the most hellish of circumstances. |
| air force black history month: The 1619 Project: Born on the Water Nikole Hannah-Jones, Renée Watson, 2021-11-16 The 1619 Project’s lyrical picture book in verse chronicles the consequences of slavery and the history of Black resistance in the United States, thoughtfully rendered by Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist Nikole Hannah-Jones and Newbery honor-winning author Renée Watson. A young student receives a family tree assignment in school, but she can only trace back three generations. Grandma gathers the whole family, and the student learns that 400 years ago, in 1619, their ancestors were stolen and brought to America by white slave traders. But before that, they had a home, a land, a language. She learns how the people said to be born on the water survived. And the people planted dreams and hope, willed themselves to keep living, living. And the people learned new words for love for friend for family for joy for grow for home. With powerful verse and striking illustrations by Nikkolas Smith, Born on the Water provides a pathway for readers of all ages to reflect on the origins of American identity. |
| air force black history month: Air Force Combat Units of World War II Maurer Maurer, 1961 |
| air force black history month: Air Force Roles and Missions Warren A. Trest, 1998 Traces the usage of- and meaning given to- the terms roles and missions relating to the armed forces and particularly to the United States Air Force, from 1907 to the present. |
| air force black history month: The U.S. Air Force in Space, 1945 to the Twenty-First Century: Proceedings Air Force Historical Foundation. Symposium, 1998-09-02 Contains papers presented at the Air Force Historical Foundation Symposium, held at Andrews Air Force Base, Maryland, on September 21-22, 1995. Topics addressed are: Pt. 1, The Formative Years, 1945-1961; Pt. 2, Mission Development and Exploitation Since 1961; and Pt. 3, Military Space Today and Tomorrow. Includes notes, abbreviations & acronyms, an index, and photographs. |
| air force black history month: Spiritual Tearfall Mervyn Seivwright, 2015-02-09 Poems given for spiritual guidance and inspiration. Placed in a storehouse of pages; these poems are inspired by the bible, God's word and how He can channel through us as vessels to bring others to His word. Gladly sharing the messages He spoke to me. Tearfall is symbolized by the tears of joy or sadness in our lives that inspire spiritual change. A constant shower throughout our lives whether our tears shown on our face or internally away from eye view. 7 Shelves: To Accept Him Flesh Fight Transition His Glory Submission A Vessel Jesus to Me This book reflects a constant part of my internal journey in Christ. These poems are messages passed on that kept me grounded on my heart's path. Though each day still presents mountains to overcome that the bible gets me through, the poems render personal messages of accountability or confirmation in my walk. We make it through the 7 shelves, many of us hit highs and lows in life wanting to be in complete submission and be a vessel for God, but fighting with the flesh leads us through a recycling transition. It is the challenges through work, struggles, purpose, friends and family with their influences that have us question each decision we make. His glory is the beauty that feels good about accepting Jesus in our lives. |
| air force black history month: Immortal Valor Robert Child, 2022-01-06 The remarkable story of the seven African American soldiers ultimately awarded the World War II Medal of Honor, and the 50-year campaign to deny them their recognition. In 1945, when Congress began reviewing the record of the most conspicuous acts of courage by American soldiers during World War II, they recommended awarding the Medal of Honor to 432 recipients. Despite the fact that more than one million African-Americans served, not a single black soldier received the Medal of Honor. The omission remained on the record for over four decades. But recent historical investigations have brought to light some of the extraordinary acts of valor performed by black soldiers during the war. Men like Vernon Baker, who single-handedly eliminated three enemy machineguns, an observation post, and a German dugout. Or Sergeant Reuben Rivers, who spearhead his tank unit's advance against fierce German resistance for three days despite being grievously wounded. Meanwhile Lieutenant Charles Thomas led his platoon to capture a strategically vital village on the Siegfried Line in 1944 despite losing half his men and suffering a number of wounds himself. Ultimately, in 1993 a US Army commission determined that seven men, including Baker, Rivers and Thomas, had been denied the Army's highest award simply due to racial discrimination. In 1997, more than 50 years after the war, President Clinton finally awarded the Medal of Honor to these seven heroes, sadly all but one of them posthumously. These are their stories. |
| air force black history month: The United States Air Force and the Culture of Innovation, 1945-1965 Stephen B. Johnson, 2002 |
| air force black history month: Beyond the Wild Blue Walter J. Boyne, 2007-06-26 From the most important leaders and the most courageous victories to the earliest machines of flight and the most advanced Stealth technology, Walter J. Boyne's Beyond the Wild Blue presents a fascinating look at 50 turbulent years of Air Force history. From the prop-driven armada of World War II to the most advanced Stealth weaponry, from pioneers like General Henry Hap Arnold to glorious conquests in the Gulf War, Beyond the Wild Blue is a high-flying study of the triumphs (and failures) of leadership and technology. In three new chapters, Walter Boyne covers an eventful ten years, including 9/11, the invasion of Afghanistan, and the second Gulf War, describing in detail the technological advancements that led to highly efficient airstrikes in Iraq. He also takes stock of the Air Force's doctrine and mission statements as this unique sector of the military grapples with an ever-changing world. |
| air force black history month: Apollo's Warriors Michael E. Haas, 1998-05 Presenting a fascinating insider's view of U.S.A.F. special operations, this volume brings to life the critical contributions these forces have made to the exercise of air & space power. Focusing in particular on the period between the Korean War & the Indochina wars of 1950-1979, the accounts of numerous missions are profusely illustrated with photos & maps. Includes a discussion of AF operations in Europe during WWII, as well as profiles of Air Commandos who performed above & beyond the call of duty. Reflects on the need for financial & political support for restoration of the forces. Bibliography. Extensive photos & maps. Charts & tables. |
| air force black history month: The Tuskegee Airmen Chronology Daniel Haulman, 2018 [P]rovides a unique year-by-year overview of the fascinating story of the Tuskegee Airmen, embracing important events in the formation of the first military training for black pilots in United States history, the phases of their training at various air fields in Tuskegee and elsewhere, their continued training at other bases around the U.S., and their deployment overseas, first to North Africa and then to Sicily and Italy.--Provided by publisher. |
| air force black history month: Discovering the Underground Railroad United States. National Park Service, National Park Service (U.S.), 2012-01-31 Provides activities for children ages 5-12 to learn about the history of the underground railroad and the Emancipation Proclamation. Activities include circling items as well as fill-in-the-blanks, reading comprehension, a maze game, historical timeline, word find puzzle, a crossword puzzle, journal entries for this booklet and section for individual notes. |
| air force black history month: From Slavery to Freedom: Narrative Of The Life, Incidents in the Life of a Slave Girl, Up From Slavery, The Souls of Black Folk. Illustrated Frederick Douglass, Harriet Ann Jacobs, Booker Taliaferro Washington, W. E. B. Du Bois, 2021-01-08 African American history is the part of American history that looks at the past of African Americans or Black Americans. Of the 10.7 million Africans who were brought to the Americas until the 1860s, 450 thousand were shipped to what is now the United States. Most African Americans are descended from Africans who were brought directly from Africa to America and became slaves. The future slaves were originally captured in African wars or raids and transported in the Atlantic slave trade. Our collection includes the following works: Narrative Of The Life by Frederick Douglass. The impassioned abolitionist and eloquent orator provides graphic descriptions of his childhood and horrifying experiences as a slave as well as a harrowing record of his dramatic escape to the North and eventual freedom. Incidents In The Life Of A Slave Girl by Harriet Jacobs. Powerful by portrayal of the brutality of slave life through the inspiring tale of one woman's dauntless spirit and faith. Up From Slavery by Booker T. Washington. Washington rose to become the most influential spokesman for African Americans of his day. He describes events in a remarkable life that began in slavery and culminated in worldwide recognition. The Souls of Black Folk by W. E. B. Du Bois. W. E. B. Du Bois was an American sociologist, socialist, historian, civil rights activist, Pan-Africanist, author, writer and editor. Contents: 1. Frederick Douglass: Narrative Of The Life 2. Harriet Ann Jacobs: Incidents in the Life of a Slave Girl 3. Booker Taliaferro Washington: Up From Slavery 4. W. E. B. Du Bois: The Souls of Black Folk |
| air force black history month: Commanding an Air Force Squadron Col Usaf Timmons, Timothy, Timothy T. Timmons, 2012-08-07 The privilege of commanding an Air Force squadron, despite its heavy responsibilities and unrelenting challenges, represents for many Air Force officers the high point of their careers. It is service as a squadron commander that accords true command authority for the first time. The authority, used consistently and wisely, provides a foundation for command. As with the officer's commission itself, command authority is granted to those who have earned it, both by performance and a revealed capacity for the demands of total responsibility. But once granted, it much be revalidated every day. So as one assumes squadron command, bringing years of experience and proven record to join with this new authority, one might still need a little practical help to success with the tasks of command. This book offers such help. “Commanding an Air Force Squadron” brings unique and welcome material to a subject other books have addressed. It is rich in practical, useful, down-to-earth advice from officers who have recently experienced squadron command. The author does not quote regulations, parrot doctrine, or paraphrase the abstractions that lace the pages of so many books about leadership. Nor does he puff throughout the manuscript about how he did it. Rather, he presents a digest of practical wisdom based on real-world experience drawn from the reflection of many former commanders from any different types of units. He addresses all Air Force squadron commanders, rated and nonrated, in all sorts of missions worldwide. Please also see a follow up to this book entitled “Commanding an Air Force Squadron in the Twenty-First Century (2003)” by Jeffry F. Smith, Lieutenant Colonel, USAF. |
| air force black history month: Air Force Chaplains United States. Air Force. Office of the Chief of Chaplains, Daniel B. Jorgensen, 1991 |
| air force black history month: Sweet Georgia Brown Lawrence E. Walker, 2019-01-31 Charity Adams Earley, commander of the 6888th Central Postal Directory Battalion in World War II, summarized the history of women in the military when she wrote in 1989: The future of women in the military seems assured... What may be lost in time is the story of how it happened. The barriers of sex and race were, and sometimes still are, very difficult to overcome, the second even more than the first. During World War II women in the service were often subject to ridicule and disrespect even as they performed satisfactorily... Each year the number of people who shared the stress of these accomplishments lessens. In another generation young black women who join the military will have scant record of their predecessors who fought on the two fronts of discrimination segregation and reluctant acceptance by males. |
| air force black history month: Black Poppies Stephen Bourne, 2014-08-01 In 1914 Britain was home to at least 10,000 black Britons, many of African and West Indian heritage. Most of them were loyal to the 'mother country' when the First World War broke out. Despite being discouraged from serving in the British Army, men managed to join all branches of the forces, while black communities contributed to the war effort on the home front. By 1918 it is estimated that Britain's black population had trebled to 30,000, as many black servicemen who had fought for Britain decided to make it their home. It was far from a happy ending, however, as they and their families often came under attack from white ex-servicemen and civilians increasingly resentful of their presence. With first-hand accounts and original photographs, Black Poppies is the essential guide to the military and civilian wartime experiences of black men and women, from the trenches to the music halls. It is intended as a companion to Stephen Bourne's previous books published by The History Press: Mother Country: Britain's Black Community on the Home Front 1939–45 and The Motherland Calls: Britain's Black Servicemen and Women 1939–45. |
| air force black history month: The Pig Book Citizens Against Government Waste, 2013-09-17 The federal government wastes your tax dollars worse than a drunken sailor on shore leave. The 1984 Grace Commission uncovered that the Department of Defense spent $640 for a toilet seat and $436 for a hammer. Twenty years later things weren't much better. In 2004, Congress spent a record-breaking $22.9 billion dollars of your money on 10,656 of their pork-barrel projects. The war on terror has a lot to do with the record $413 billion in deficit spending, but it's also the result of pork over the last 18 years the likes of: - $50 million for an indoor rain forest in Iowa - $102 million to study screwworms which were long ago eradicated from American soil - $273,000 to combat goth culture in Missouri - $2.2 million to renovate the North Pole (Lucky for Santa!) - $50,000 for a tattoo removal program in California - $1 million for ornamental fish research Funny in some instances and jaw-droppingly stupid and wasteful in others, The Pig Book proves one thing about Capitol Hill: pork is king! |
| air force black history month: Foundation of the Force Mark R. Grandstaff, 1997 A study of how Air Force enlisted personnel helped shape the fi%ture Air Force and foster professionalism among noncommissioned officers in the 195Os. |
| air force black history month: Little Leaders: Bold Women in Black History Vashti Harrison, 2017-12-05 #1 NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLER Meet the little leaders. They're brave. They're bold. They changed the world. Featuring 40 trailblazing black women in history, this book educates and inspires as it relates true stories of women who broke boundaries and exceeded all expectations, including: Nurse Mary Seacole Politician Diane Abbott Mathematician Katherine Johnson Singer Shirley Bassey Bestselling author and artist Vashti Harrison pairs captivating text and beautiful illustrations as she tells the stories of both iconic and lesser-known female figures. Among these biographies, readers will find heroes, role models, and everyday women who did extraordinary things. |
| air force black history month: Black History Walks WARNER, 2022-10-27 A collection of guided tours throughout London Black History Walks invites the reader to see their surroundings with new eyes. |
| air force black history month: Medical Support of the Army Air Forces in World War II United States. Air Force Medical Service, Mae Mills Link, Hubert Anderson Coleman, 1955 |
| air force black history month: The Lost Eleven Denise George, Robert Child, 2017-01-31 Nearly forgotten by history, this is the story of the Wereth Eleven, African-American soldiers who fought courageously for freedom in WWII—only to be ruthlessly executed by Nazi troops during the Battle of the Bulge. Their story was almost forgotten by history. Now known as the Wereth Eleven, these brave African-American soldiers left their homes to join the Allied effort on the front lines of WWII. As members of the 333rd Field Artillery Battalion, they provided crucial fire support at the Siege of Bastogne. Among the few who managed to escape the Nazi’s devastating Ardennes Offensive, they found refuge in the small village of Wereth, Belgium. A farmer and supporter of the Allies took the exhausted and half-starved men into his home. When Nazi authorities learned of their whereabouts, they did not take the soldiers prisoner, but subjected them to torture and execution in a nearby field. Despite their bravery and sacrifice, these eleven soldiers were omitted from the final Congressional War Crimes report of 1949. For seventy years, their files—marked secret—gathered dust in the National Archive. But in 1994, at the site of their execution, a memorial was dedicated to the Wereth Eleven and all African-American soldiers who fought in Europe. Drawing on firsthand interviews with family members and fellow soldiers, The Lost Eleven tells the complete story of these nearly forgotten soldiers, their valor in battle and their tragic end. INCLUDES PHOTOS |
| air force black history month: Before the Mayflower Lerone Bennett, 2018-08-09 This book grew out of a series of articles which were published originally in Ebony magazine. The book, like the series, deals with the trials and triumphs of a group of Americans whose roots in the American soil are deeper than those of the Puritans who arrived on the celebrated “Mayflower” a year after a “Dutch man of war” deposited twenty Negroes at Jamestown. This is a history of “the other Americans” and how they came to North America and what happened to them when they got here. The story begins in Africa with the great empires of the Sudan and Nile Valley and ends with the Second Reconstruction which Martin Luther King, Jr., and the “sit-in” generation are fashioning in the North and South. The story deals with the rise and growth of slavery and segregation and the continuing efforts of Negro Americans to answer the question of the Jewish poet of captivity: “How shall we sing the Lord’s song in a strange land?” This history is founded on the work of scholars and specialists and is designed for the average reader. It is not, strictly speaking, a book for scholars; but it is as scholarly as fourteen months of research could make it. Readers who would like to follow the story in greater detail are urged to read each chapter in connection with the outline of Negro history in the appendix. |
| air force black history month: Blood for Dignity David P. Colley, 2004-02-04 The integration of black platoons in 1945 represents the first time since the American Revolution that African American soldiers were integrated into white combat units. The experiences of these soldiers were truly radical and a harbinger of things to come. Clearly, these black infantrymen planted the seeds of integration in the army--and the nation. Blood for Dignity tells the story of these soldiers through the eyes of 5th platoon, K Company, 394th Regiment, 99th Division--the first integrated combat unit since the Revolutionary War. These men were involved in heavy combat at the Remagen Bridgehead and several other critical junctures as they drove back the German army. The performance of these men laid to rest the accepted white attitude of a century and a half that blacks were cowardly and inferior fighters. In fact, they proved to be just the opposite. Author David Colley interviewed many of the members of the 99th. Their accounts along with years of reseach paint a gripping, combat-heavy portrait of young men fighting together for their nation. For as they will tell you, in combat situations, prejudice and the color line disappears. |
| air force black history month: Airman , 1985 |
| air force black history month: The United States Air Force in Southeast Asia, 1961-1973 Jack S. Ballard, 1984 |
| air force black history month: Integration of the Armed Forces, 1940-1965 Morris J. MacGregor, 1981 CMH Pub 50-1-1. Defense Studies Series. Discusses the evolution of the services' racial policies and practices between World War II and 1965 during the period when black servicemen and women were integrated into the Nation's military units. |
| air force black history month: Air Force Handbook 1 U. S. Air Force, 2018-07-17 This handbook implements AFPD 36-22, Air Force Military Training. Information in this handbook is primarily from Air Force publications and contains a compilation of policies, procedures, and standards that guide Airmen's actions within the Profession of Arms. This handbook applies to the Regular Air Force, Air Force Reserve and Air National Guard. This handbook contains the basic information Airmen need to understand the professionalism required within the Profession of Arms. Attachment 1 contains references and supporting information used in this publication. This handbook is the sole source reference for the development of study guides to support the enlisted promotion system. Enlisted Airmen will use these study guide to prepare for their Promotion Fitness Examination (PFE) or United States Air Force Supervisory Examination (USAFSE). |
| air force black history month: Airstream , 1984 |
| air force black history month: Air Force Magazine , 2003 |
| air force black history month: The Unlikely Spy Daniel Silva, 1996 Blending fiction with fact, The Unlikely Spy finds eccentric Commander Alfred Vicary attempting to identify and locate a Nazi 'sleeper'. The book moves from Lisbon to London, culminating in a chase across England and a twist-packed climax. |
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