Week 17 – MILITARY SERVICE – Introduction

May is Military Appreciation Month

Let us respect every soldier, from every country who serves beside us in the hard work of history. America is grateful, and America will never forget.

African Americans took up arms for their freedom in the American Revolution, the War of 1812, and the Civil War. Later, they entered the military by draft or by enlisting as a way off the small island and a way to see the world. Some served only a few months. Others chose the military as a long career that provided a paycheck, benefits, health insurance, and housing, Their career supported their families and served their country. And wherever they were stationed around the globe they always kept in touch with their island families.

This month our articles highlight African American participation for freedom, and profiles of three Harrington students Private First Class James A. Lotson, Jr., Colonel USAF James H. Scott and Master Sergeant Maurice Wilson, Jr.

Do you have family members who served? Pls. email any photos and details to include in an exhibit in May at the Harrington School and to save in the SSAAHC archives to Judith Stevens at stevens259@att.net.

The exhibit will feature names, photos, service branch, and military details such as where they served and recollections of their service.

JOIN US FOR

MILITARY RECOGNITION DAY

PROGRAM AND OPENING EXHIBIT

SATURDAY, MAY 18, 1-3 p.m.

Historic Harrington School Cultural Center

291 South Harrington Rd., St. Simons Island, GA

During military appreciation day we honor the bravery of the servicemen and service women who risked their lives on behalf of our country and citizens.

Keynote speaker: Former Mayor Cornell Harvey
USAF (Ret) Chief Master Sergeant

Thank you for your service. Thank you for your sacrifices, for your valor, for the things you carry, for protecting us, and for defending our rights. Thank you to all our veterans for your courage, strength and dedication to keeping us safe.

Hosted by The St. Simons African American Heritage Coalition