Historian Matthew Delmont, the Sherman Fairchild Distinguished Professor of History at Dartmouth College, lends his expertise to two new documentaries highlighting the experiences of Black Americans who served in the U.S. military during World War II. These documentaries, Erased: WW2’s Heroes of Color and The Real Red Tails, both premiered on National Geographic on June 3rd.
Delmont, who also serves as the Frank J. Guarini Associate Dean of International Studies and Interdisciplinary Studies at Dartmouth, is a recognized authority on African American history and the Civil Rights Movement. His award-winning book, Half American: The Epic Story of African Americans Fighting World War II at Home and Abroad, provides a compelling account of these often-overlooked contributions. This book received the prestigious Anisfield-Wolf Book Award, recognizing its profound exploration of racism and diversity.
Erased: WW2’s Heroes of Color Unearths Untold Stories
Erased: WW2’s Heroes of Color, a four-part documentary series, delves into the largely untold stories of Black soldiers who played crucial roles in pivotal World War II battles. The series focuses on four key battles: Pearl Harbor, D-Day, Dunkirk, and the Battle of the Bulge, highlighting the often-unacknowledged contributions of Black soldiers. Executive produced and narrated by Idris Elba, whose own grandfather served in the war, the series amplifies the stories of over eight million individuals who fought valiantly for the Allied forces.
A Deeper Look at Black Contributions to WWII
Each episode utilizes a combination of historical dramatizations, firsthand accounts from descendants, expert insights from historians like Delmont, and curated archival footage. This multifaceted approach brings to life the bravery and resilience of at least three African American heroes per episode. The series also draws a direct line between the wartime struggles of these individuals and the subsequent post-war movements for freedom that emerged across the globe. This connection underscores the lasting impact of their service and sacrifice.
Alt text: A group of Black soldiers in uniform during World War II.
The Impact of WWII on the Civil Rights Movement
By exploring the experiences of Black soldiers in WWII, Erased sheds light on the hypocrisy they faced. Fighting for freedom abroad while still facing segregation and discrimination at home fueled the burgeoning Civil Rights Movement. The series effectively illustrates how the war became a catalyst for change, inspiring Black veterans to demand equal rights and opportunities.
The Real Red Tails: Uncovering a Lost Story
The Real Red Tails, a one-hour documentary, focuses on the discovery of a WWII-era P-39 airplane in Lake Huron, Michigan, and the history of the Tuskegee Airmen, the first Black flying unit in the United States military. This unit broke racial barriers and paved the way for future generations of Black pilots.
The Story of Second Lieutenant Frank Moody
The film centers around the story of Second Lieutenant Frank Moody, a 22-year-old Tuskegee pilot who tragically lost his life on April 11, 1944, during a routine training mission. His plane malfunctioned and crashed into Lake Huron, leaving behind an 80-year-old mystery. Narrated by Sheryl Lee Ralph (Abbott Elementary), The Real Red Tails takes viewers on a captivating journey to uncover the truth behind Moody’s fatal crash.
Underwater Archaeology and First-hand Accounts
The Real Red Tails employs underwater archaeologists to recover parts of Moody’s downed plane for the first time. This footage, combined with firsthand accounts from fellow aviators, provides new insights into a story lost to time. The film weaves together these elements to create a compelling narrative that honors Moody’s sacrifice and celebrates the legacy of the Tuskegee Airmen.
Conclusion: Remembering and Honoring Black WWII Veterans
Both Erased: WW2’s Heroes of Color and The Real Red Tails contribute significantly to our understanding of the vital roles Black Americans played during World War II. These documentaries bring to light often-overlooked stories of bravery, resilience, and sacrifice. By showcasing these individuals and their experiences, the films serve as a powerful reminder of the importance of remembering and honoring all those who served.
We encourage you to watch these documentaries and learn more about the remarkable contributions of Black WWII veterans. Share this important history with others and help ensure that their stories are never forgotten.
FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions about Black WWII Veterans
Q: Why were the contributions of Black WWII veterans often overlooked?
A: A combination of factors contributed to this oversight, including racial prejudice, segregation within the military, and a lack of adequate documentation and recognition of their service.
Q: How did WWII impact the Civil Rights Movement?
A: The hypocrisy of fighting for democracy abroad while facing discrimination at home galvanized Black veterans and fueled their fight for equal rights in the postwar era.
Q: Where can I watch these documentaries?
A: Erased: WW2’s Heroes of Color and The Real Red Tails are available for streaming on National Geographic. Check your local listings for availability.
Q: How can I learn more about Black WWII history?
A: Numerous books, articles, and online resources are available. Start by exploring the works of historians like Matthew Delmont and visiting museums and archives dedicated to WWII history. We welcome your questions and encourage you to share any additional resources you discover.
