Right to Fight

Right to Fight
Right to Fight is a powerful exploration of the contributions of men and women of color in the United States military, highlighting their fight for equal opportunity to serve.

Episodes

(Videos will be available on the dates indicated.)

Right to Fight Trailer
July 26, 1948 was an important day in military history. On that day, President Harry Truman signed an executive order that mandated an end to segregation in the military. Although men and women of color have served in the military since colonial times, this executive order granted them the right to fight along fellow service personnel on an equal basis.

There is an interesting history here. The record of individuals overcoming obstacles and gaining the right to defend their homeland. The Armed Forces Heritage Museum will share that story with you.
Senator Singleton Keynote
New Jersey State Senator Troy Singleton delivers an introduction to our Right to Fight series. Senator Singleton discusses the importance of this video series, noting the courage and commitment of the many men and women of color who defended the nation and its values while serving in the military.
Colonel Tye
The story of Colonel Tye, an escaped slave who became a leader among Loyalist forces during the American Revolution, highlights his fight for freedom by aligning with the British Army. As one of the most effective guerrilla leaders of the time, Colonel Tye's story sheds light on the complexities of loyalty and liberty during the Revolutionary War and the broader struggle for freedom faced by enslaved African Americans.
Major General McNeil - Civil Rights Lunch Counter
As a young Air Force ROTC cadet, Joseph McNeil became a pivotal figure in the Civil Rights Movement. His role in organizing the Greensboro sit-ins of 1960 sparked a nationwide effort to desegregate lunch counters and public spaces. McNeil's commitment to equality endured throughout his military career, culminating in his retirement as a Major General and Vice Commander of the Air Force Reserve. His journey exemplifies the intersection of military service and social justice.
Major General McNeil - Citizen Soldiers
As a young Air Force ROTC cadet, Joseph McNeil became a pivotal figure in the Civil Rights Movement. His role in organizing the Greensboro sit-ins of 1960 sparked a nationwide effort to desegregate lunch counters and public spaces. McNeil's commitment to equality endured throughout his military career, culminating in his retirement as a Major General and Vice Commander of the Air Force Reserve. His journey exemplifies the intersection of military service and social justice.
Charles David - Dorchester Rescue
Charles Walter David Jr., a U.S. Coast Guardsman, displayed extraordinary heroism during the rescue operation after the sinking of the Army Transport Ship Dorchester in January 1943. Despite frigid temperatures and treacherous conditions off the coast of Greenland, he saved numerous lives, including those of his fellow crew members. His actions exemplify selflessness and courage, serving as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made by African Americans in service to their country.
Montford Point Marines
The Montford Point Marines were the first African Americans to serve in the U.S. Marine Corps, joining during World War II when the Corps was the last military branch to integrate. Their service, despite significant adversity and discrimination, paved the way for future generations. These trailblazers also served with distinction during the Korean and Vietnam Wars, leaving a legacy of perseverance and honor.
Eugene Bullard
Eugene Bullard’s extraordinary life is a testament to resilience and heroism. As an African American expatriate in France, he joined the French Foreign Legion during World War I, earning distinction for his bravery. Later, he became the world’s first Black fighter pilot and continued to fight for freedom as part of the French Resistance during World War II. His story reflects the challenges and triumphs of a man determined to defy the limits imposed by racism.
Eleanor Roosevelt
As First Lady during World War II, Eleanor Roosevelt was a staunch advocate for racial equality. When she was told that Black men were unfit to pilot aircraft, she traveled to Tuskegee and flew with Chief Flight Instructor Charles Anderson, proving their capability. Her actions garnered national attention and helped secure funding for the Tuskegee flight program, ultimately leading to the formation of the legendary Tuskegee Airmen.
Major Hathaway - Vietnam
Major Ronald Hathaway, USMC Retired, proudly served for an impressive 33 years of active duty, culminating as the Officer in Charge of Combat Photography for the entire US Marine Corps. Throughout his distinguished career, he was instrumental in documenting the stories of Marines in action, preserving moments of valor, and showcasing the realities of military service. During his time as an enlisted Marine, he served as a combat cameraman during the Vietnam War. Armed with a camera and a sidearm, he embedded himself alongside Marines in the midst of combat operations, often under fire. His role was both dangerous and essential. His film captures powerful imagery that will tell the story of the war and the bravery of those who fought it.
1949 Fighter Competition
In 1949, Black pilots made history by winning the first U.S. Air Force Fighter Gunnery Competition. Despite their victory, the achievement went unrecognized due to racism, and the trophy was lost for 55 years. This story sheds light on their remarkable skill and perseverance in the face of institutional discrimination, highlighting their contributions to the integration and excellence of the Air Force.
Jackie Robinson Court Martial
Before breaking baseball’s color barrier, Jackie Robinson served in the U.S. Army during World War II. His military career was marked by a historic court-martial after he challenged racial discrimination by refusing to move to the back of a bus. Though ultimately acquitted, his defiance and courage foreshadowed his role as a trailblazer in the fight for civil rights both on and off the baseball field.
6888th Postal Battalion
During World War II, the 6888th Central Postal Directory Battalion, an all-Black, all-female unit, was deployed to England to tackle the overwhelming backlog of undelivered mail to U.S. troops. Working in grueling conditions, the women of the “Six Triple Eight” processed millions of letters and packages, ensuring that morale-boosting mail reached soldiers on the front lines. Their mission symbolized both their commitment to the war effort and their determination to prove that Black women could serve with excellence. Facing racial and gender discrimination, the 6888th completed their work with remarkable efficiency, leaving a legacy of resilience and service that would inspire future generations.
Buffalo Soldiers
Buffalo Soldiers were African American troops who played a pivotal role in post-Civil War America. They were instrumental in the Indian Wars, protecting settlers and critical infrastructure while navigating the perils of harsh terrain and internal discrimination. Named by Native Americans for their resilience, these soldiers became renowned for their tactical ingenuity and determination. Beyond their battlefield heroics, they built essential military infrastructure that supported the U.S. expansion into the West. Their remarkable service, highlighted by 18 Medals of Honor, not only secured the frontier but also laid the groundwork for military desegregation.
Funding has been made possible in part by the New Jersey Historical Commission / Department of State, and the Burlington County Board of County Commissioners, Department of Resource Conservation, Division of Parks.