As Admiral Chester W. Nimitz famously said of his men during World War II, “Uncommon valor was a common virtue.”

In our country’s history, some years stand out more than others, for example, 1941 – the start of WWII, 1950 – the beginning of the Korean war, 1959 – Vietnam War, 2001 – 9/11. We now have the year 2020 that will go down in the history books as a year that changed our world.

For most of us, 2020 will be the year of world-wide numbers of positive cases, shutdowns, closings, masks, and tragically, deaths. The outbreak of this pandemic has touched everyone, and, unfortunately, it is not over yet.

Just as history has taught us that you can always find “uncommon valor” in our military, we have seen it in our health care workers, first responders, drive by birthday celebrations, and yes, in our current military men and women, to name a few. We have seen so many people who have stepped up to do what was needed to bring comfort to shut-ins, the elderly, and people who have shared their talents and brought cheer to their neighbors, even if it was from a street corner.

At the Chennault Aviation and Military Museum, the year 2020 has been a difficult time, and we will always be grateful for our “virtuous” members and supporters who have made it possible for us to keep our doors open.

We look forward to this new year 2021 and continuing our mission to “Preserve, Promote and Honor Aviation and Military History,” and of course, our most important one to serve our soldiers, veterans, and community.

Celebrating Black History Month

February is Black History Month, so we would like to honor the black men and women who have served our country over the years.

The Tuskegee Airmen were a group of primarily black military pilots (fighter and bomber) and airmen who fought in World War II. This elite group paved the way to overcome segregation and prejudice.One such airman was Richard Caeser, pictured to the left. After graduating from Morehouse College in Atlanta, Georgia in 1940, Richard was drafted into the military. Caesar became one of the Tuskee Airmen. An engineering officer and pilot with the 100th Fighter Squadron, Richard ascended through the ranks to become Lieutenant Colonel.In 1943, Caesar helped to rescue fellow pilot Roscoe Brown Jr. from a potentially disastrous plane crash. Of the incident, Richard said he was just doing his job. Roscoe would be credited as the first pilot to shoot down a German fighter jet.

Pictured here is Roscoe and fellow Tuskegee Airman.Come visit the Museum this month and view the exhibit on these brave men as well as a handcarved P-51 Red Tail signed by Roscoe.We will also be honoring Black History Month every Monday and Thursday on our Facebook page.