Sunday, June 12, 2011

Wichita is celebrating America's first black airmen, through a new traveling exhibit.

The exhibition features memorabilia and historical documentation of the bravery and dedication the men had to become black airmen.

They are known as heroes, and men who refused to say no.

"Each of us who started out in 1941 were motivated because they told us we couldn't do it. Saying we couldn't do it, that's why we proved we can do it," said Aldee Miller, Tuskegee Airman.

Generations later, Tuskegee Airmen continue to be honored for becoming some of the greatest pilots in America's history.

"We didn't have any aspirations of glory and all that business at that time. Nowadays, it's refreshing to know we made some contribution to helping win the war, and we've made some affects on the social structure of the nation," said Maj. George Boyd, Tuskegee Airman.

Through historical lessons, stories, memorabilia and exhibits, the airmen continue to have an affect on the country.

Starting June 4, The Kansas African American Museum began featuring a special exhibit to honor the men.

"It inspires because of all the struggles these men had to face, all the obstacles that were in their way, but they defeated all the odds, and we can share this with generations to come," said Prisca Barnes, Kansas African American Museum.

Share, and teach others that anyone can do anything, especially with dedication and determination like the Tuskegee Airmen had.

"It's something we wanted to do, and we enjoyed, and we did it because we knew we could do it," said Miller.

"It was just win the war, and do the best you could," said Boyd.

The Tuskegee Airmen exhibit remains at the Kansas African American Museum until August 20th.