Focus On: African Americans in WWII – Thomas E. Simmons presents The Man Called Brown Condor: The Forgotten History of an African American Fighter Pilot

WWII Museum

African Americans in WWII

Focus On: African Americans in WWII

By 1945, more than 1.2 million African Americans had served bravely in every theater of World War II, while simultaneously struggling for their own civil rights. Although the US Armed Forces were officially segregated until 1948, World War II laid the foundation for post-war integration of the military.

One of our most recent exhibitions, Fighting for the Right to Fight: African American Experiences in WWII, is a poignant retelling of the stories of the thousands of African Americans who rushed to enlist at the start of the war, intent on serving the country that treated them as second-class citizens. It discusses how hopes of equality inspired many to enlist, the discouraging reality of the segregated non-combat roles given to black recruits, and the continuing fight for “Double Victory” that laid the groundwork for the Civil Rights Movement.

Public Programming

Meet the Author

Thomas E. Simmons presents
The Man Called Brown Condor: The Forgotten History of an African American Fighter Pilot

The Man Called Brown Condor cover art

Friday, February 12
5:00 p.m. Special exhibit open for viewing  |  6:00 p.m. Presentation and Q&A  |  7:00 p.m. Book signing
Louisiana Memorial Pavilion and Special Exhibit Gallery

In conjunction with Fighting for the Right to Fight: African American Experiences in WWII, join author Thomas E. Simmons as he shares the story of John C. Robinson, often called the father of the Tuskegee Airmen. Before the presentation, spend time immersed in the special exhibit gallery learning about segregation, bravery, tough choices, and honor deferred through the stories of Tuskegee Airmen, Montford Point Marines, and the millions of African American men and women who fought on the battlefield and the home front during World War II. Mr. Simmons, a veteran and pilot, has authored several books about those involved in World War II, and none more compelling than The Man Called Brown Condor.

This program is free and open to the public but requires an RSVP. RSVP online now. For more information call 504-528-1944 x 229.