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Retired Col. Charles McGee, an original Tuskegee Airman, will serve as the guest speaker during the African American Heritage Month luncheon at the Minuteman Commons Feb. 21. (Photography by Staff Sgt. Vernon Young Jr.)
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Original Tuskegee Airman to speak at heritage luncheon
Posted 2/14/2013 Updated 2/14/2013
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African American Heritage Month committee
2/14/2013 - HANSCOM AIR FORCE BASE, Mass. -- The African American Heritage Month committee will host a luncheon at the Minuteman Commons ballroom Feb. 21 at 11 a.m. as part of 2013 African American Heritage Month activities.
This year's theme is "At the Crossroads of Freedom and Equality: The Emancipation Proclamation and the March on Washington," and the guest speaker will be original Tuskegee Airman retired Col. Charles McGee.
In spite of adversity and limited opportunities, African Americans have played a significant role in U.S. military history over the past 300 years. They were denied military leadership roles and skilled training because many believed they lacked qualifications for combat duty.
Before 1940, African Americans were barred from flying for the U.S. military. Civil rights organizations and the black press exerted pressure that resulted in the formation of an all-African American pursuit squadron based in Tuskegee, Ala., in 1941. They became known as the Tuskegee Airmen.
The Tuskegee Airmen were the first African American aviators to fight in World War II. They were also called "Red Tails" due to their planes' distinctive red tail markings.
"We are very honored that Colonel McGee, at 94 years of age, has agreed to travel from Maryland to be this year's guest speaker and bring a piece of living history to Hanscom," said Capt. Mark Oleksak, committee president. "This promises to be one of those events you will always remember for a long time, so get your tickets today. They are limited."
Catering will be provided by FireBox BBQ of Bedford, Mass. In addition, there will be other original Tuskegee Airmen from the New England Chapter in attendance.
Tickets are required for entry and are on sale now for $13 per person. Tickets may be purchased from any member of the 2013 African American Heritage Month committee.
Capt. Mark Oleksak at 781-271-5287
Capt. Wellington Phillips at 781-225-1239
Capt. Jonathan Menashi at 781-271-2048
Senior Master Sgt. Lynette Scott at 781-225-1272
Timothy Martin at 781-225-5609
Dr. Quincy Mosby at 781-225-5055
For further ticket or event information, call Oleksak at 781-271-5287 or Capt. Wellington Phillips at 781-225-1239.
Other African American Heritage Month activities:
Feb. 15: Winter Showcase and Dance at the Minuteman Commons from 8 p.m. to midnight. The cost is $15 for singles and $25 per couples prior to the event or $20 each at the door.
Feb. 24: Gospel Fest will take place at the base chapel from 4 to 7:30 p.m. The cost is free and the event will feature a concert, choir performance and Soul Food feast. |
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