To the Editor:

Veteran’s Day, and the celebrations associated with it, is a time for reflections on services rendered by all those who served in the armed forces of our country. Many endured hardships unfathomable to those who go about their daily business on farm lands, in cities and towns throughout this great nation. Many words will be used by many speakers at many events across the United States.

When George Washington went into battle, his forces included faces of many colors and cultures. It might come as a surprise to some that the war for America’s independence was waged and won by an racially integrated army. The next fully integrated army did not occur until the 1950s, under Dwight Eisenhower’s leadership.

Black (and other non white) men and women have served selflessly and honorably for as long as the United States has existed.

The Southampton County Historical Society’s new museum has a room devoted to military artifacts and mementos from regional servicemen and women. It is well documented and well presented. Included in the exhibit are picture books for photos and histories.

I encourage black people to canvass their friends, neighbors, churches, and other organizations, for pictures, documents, and histories of military citizens not yet a part of the museum. I urge families to tell their story, to fulfill the promise of their service to their country. America’s picture is painted with many colors.

Let freedom ring.

James D. (Archie) Howell