Being a Black Veteran isn't Always Happy

America is in love with its veterans. That's the way it should be. Veterans who served in our military to provide security and a safe future for our citizens. Veterans who were and are willing to sacrifice their own lives to protect the lives of American citizens. These are our heroes and we should respect and appreciate the sacrifices they make for us. However, the love and bravery they show is not always appreciated.

The first American to die in defense of our nation was a Black man named Crispus Attucks. From that day on, Blacks have been on the front line of defense for our great nation and that will continue if we are a nation.

Many of us have loved ones who have devoted their lives to the defense of our nation. All American families have contributed to the manpower needed for the defense and the preservation of this land called America.

One of our favorite veterans is Charles DeBow Jr. That is Kay's father. His father was a Buffalo Soldier who also served in World War I. Charles was fond of aviation. So, when World War II began, and he heard of the organizing of a Black air squadron being formed in Tuskegee, Alabama, he jumped at the opportunity. He already knew how to fly so he aced the initial training and became the head of the first class of Black aviators.

One of his greatest opportunities was to participate in the North Africa Theatre. The Tuskegee Airmen provided air support for General George Patton's tank corps. Many hear about the Tuskegee Airmen flying support for our bombing missions, but few talk about their expertise in dive bombing.

Officer DeBow led the way for dive bombing. When General Patton began the invasion of Sicily, our troops were being "clobbered" by German artillery. They were stuck on the beaches unable to move forward. General Eisenhower ordered the Tuskegee Airmen based in North Africa to fly over the mountains overlooking Sicily and knock out the German artillery. Charles DeBow led the way in this battle.

They were victorious

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