Courtsey of tallahasseemuseum.org
Tallahassee Museum presents African Americans in World War II (WWII). starting July 1-Sept. 30 from 9 a.m.-5 p.m.
The exhibit is geared towards highlighting the achievements of African Americans who have served in all five service branches during the WWII.
SPC Steven Ford, explains how those African Americans who served during WWII affected his own decision to join the United States Army.
"If it had not been for those who served during WWII, I don't think I would have enlisted in the army," said Ford. "Their presence in the military made it easier for African Americans behind them to become more accepted."
Exhibition pieces highlight over 40 photographs of how life was for African American men and women and their rise above discrimination and segregation.
This exhibition is known as a traveling exhibition, and this is the first time the exhibit being presented in Tallahassee Museum.
Ms. Linda Deaton, chief curator, spoke on the history of the museum and some of the feedback that the exhibit has received since opening.
“2015 marks the 70th anniversary of the end of WWII,” said Deaton. “Visitor reaction to the exhibition has been very positive. A Vietnam veteran, I met in the gallery, let me know he appreciated the Museum.”
Photographs dating back to 1942 highlighted war production workers.
Over 2.5 million African American men, and thousands of women served in all branches of service.
Doing their part to help win the war, blacks worked in war industries, sold war bonds and encouraged troops by touring as entertainers until final victory in 1945.
Tallahassee Museum is located at 3945 Museum Drive, Tallahassee, FL 32310.