Museum adds rare barrage balloon equipment to Collection.

John Fox was one of seven African Americans who had their earlier awards upgraded to the Medal of Honor on January 13, 1997. Like all but one of the veterans, he did not live to see this honor.

More than 14,000 African American men served in the US Army Air Forces in segregated units during World War II. Only about 1,000 of them were pilots. Many others, like Louisiana native Albert Porche, filled vital support roles which kept the famed Red Tails flying in Italy. 

Many historians have written about the famous “Buffalo Soldiers” of the all-Black 92nd Infantry Division, who fought with distinction during World War II.

The Congressional Black Caucus Veterans Braintrust (CBCVB), an advisory group to members of Congress on issues related to African Americans and veterans affairs, has awarded its 2015 Veterans Braintrust Award to The National WWII Museum in recognition of work on behalf of African American veterans in World War II. Award selection is based on the support of the president and first lady and stems from the Museum’s development of a special exhibit, <em>Fighting for the Right to Fight: African American Experiences in World War II</em>.