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.
Vol 2 Episodes
Right to Fight Vol 2 Introduction
We are honored to open this year’s series with an introduction by New Jersey State Senator Troy Singleton, a longtime friend and strong supporter of the Armed Forces Heritage Museum. Senator Singleton helps set the stage for a powerful month of stories that honor courage, service, and the ongoing pursuit of equality in our nation’s military.
Colonel Tye
This Right to Fight episode introduces Colonel Tye, a formerly enslaved man who chose to fight for the British during the American Revolution because they offered him something the colonies did not—freedom. Operating out of New Jersey’s Atlantic Highlands, Colonel Tye became an effective guerrilla fighter, striking boldly and changing the course of local engagements. His story reminds us that Black men were present from the very beginning of the Revolution—at the Boston Massacre, at Lexington and Concord, at Bunker Hill, and all the way to Yorktown in 1783. It also reminds us that the nation itself was deeply divided between Loyalist and Patriot, not unlike the divisions we see today. Yet from that conflict, the United States endured and emerged as a nation. These stories challenge us to reflect on freedom, choice, and the long journey toward liberty for all.
Freedom has never been a simple choice—but it has always been worth fighting for.
American Revolution
Today’s Right to Fight episode turns back to the very beginning of our nation, examining the often-overlooked role of Black patriots during the American Revolution. Narrated by Shazel Muhammad, this episode explores how Black men stood at Lexington and Concord, fought at Bunker Hill, and served throughout the struggle for independence—only to find themselves barred from continued service as the war unfolded.
Shazel is the founder and Executive Director of African Link, an organization that provides promising young people with journeys to Africa that deepen their understanding of heritage while strengthening their identity and citizenship as Americans. Her voice brings clarity, dignity, and perspective to a story that reminds us the fight for liberty began with courage—but equality would take much longer to achieve.
Freedom has never been a simple promise—but it has always demanded brave voices willing to speak truth into history.
Battle of New Orleans
Today’s Right to Fight episode examines the Battle of New Orleans, where victory depended as much on preparation as on combat. Narrated by Ron Hathaway, this story highlights the vital role played by men and women of color in building the city’s defenses—revetments, trenches, earthworks, and other fortifications that proved decisive in stopping the British assault.
Much of this difficult and dangerous labor was carried out by free Black citizens, enslaved workers, and other marginalized groups whose efforts strengthened the defensive line that General Andrew Jackson relied upon. When the British attacked, those defenses held—and the course of the battle was changed.
Their contribution reminds us that courage is not always seen in the charge forward, but often in the hard work that makes victory possible.
Civil War
Today’s Right to Fight episode moves into the crucible of the Civil War, when the fight for the nation’s survival became inseparable from the fight for freedom itself. Narrated by Shazel Muhammad, this episode explores how Black men—once barred from service—were finally allowed to fight following the Emancipation Proclamation.
Serving in the United States Colored Troops, these soldiers faced brutal conditions, unequal pay, and the constant risk of harsher treatment if captured. Yet they fought with determination and distinction, helping to turn the tide of the war and proving beyond doubt that courage, loyalty, and sacrifice know no color. Their service strengthened the Union and reshaped the meaning of citizenship in the America that followed.
Sometimes history changes not with permission—but when those long denied a voice finally take their place on the line.
Charles Young
Today’s Right to Fight episode tells the remarkable story of Charles Young, a man who refused to let discrimination define the limits of his service. Born into slavery before the Civil War, Young rose through the ranks to become the highest-ranking Black officer of his era in the United States Army.
As a Buffalo Soldier officer, military attaché, educator, and national park superintendent, Colonel Young led with intelligence, discipline, and quiet determination—often in the face of open resistance from within the institution he served. His career bridged the post–Civil War Army and the modern professional force that followed, proving that leadership is measured not by opportunity given, but by responsibility carried.
Colonel Young’s life reminds us that progress is often advanced not by moments—but by a lifetime of steady courage.
Harlem Hellfighters
Today’s Right to Fight episode tells the powerful story of the Harlem Hellfighters, a World War I infantry regiment whose courage on the battlefield earned them lasting respect overseas—even as they faced discrimination at home. Narrated by Shazel Muhammad, this episode brings to life the experience of soldiers who were sent to fight for democracy abroad while being denied full equality in the nation they served.
Assigned to fight alongside French forces, the Harlem Hellfighters spent more time in front-line combat than any other American unit of the war. They held their ground, took heavy casualties, and never lost a foot of trench or a single soldier to capture. Their bravery shattered expectations and left an indelible mark on military history.
The Harlem Hellfighters remind us that valor needs no permission—and that honor is earned where courage meets sacrifice.
James Europe
Today’s Right to Fight episode explores how service can change the world in ways no one expects. Narrated by Shazel Muhammad, this story follows James Reese Europe, a soldier, composer, and bandleader whose music became an unexpected ambassador of American culture during World War I.
As a lieutenant with the Harlem Hellfighters, Europe led his regimental band across France, lifting troop morale and introducing European audiences to a bold new sound—jazz. His performances electrified cities and villages alike, planting the seeds of a musical revolution that would soon spread across the continent and around the world.
Lt. Europe reminds us that the impact of service is not measured only in battles fought, but in hearts changed—and in the enduring power of cultural expression.
Eugene Bullard
Today’s Right to Fight episode tells the extraordinary—and sobering—story of Eugene Bullard, a man whose courage carried him where his own country would not allow him to go. Denied the chance to fly for the United States because of his race, Bullard volunteered for France and became one of the world’s first Black fighter pilots during World War I.
Bullard flew combat missions, earned French decorations, and later risked his life again as part of the French Resistance during World War II. Yet when he returned home, his service went largely unrecognized. In later years, this decorated veteran worked quietly as an elevator operator and guide at Rockefeller Center in New York City—his wartime heroism known to few.
Eugene Bullard’s life reminds us that valor does not always bring reward, and that the cost of service can linger long after the fighting ends. His story asks us not only to remember courage—but to recognize it.
Eugene Bullard’s story reminds us that many veterans return home carrying invisible burdens, still waiting to be seen, understood, and fully honored.
Eleanor Roosevelt
Some battles are fought with weapons. Others are fought by speaking up when silence would be easier. Today’s Right to Fight episode looks at Eleanor Roosevelt, a First Lady who never wore a uniform but left a lasting mark on those who did.
During World War II, she visited bases and military hospitals, listened to service members and their families, and challenged unfair treatment—especially toward African American troops. By carrying their concerns to the highest levels of government, she helped expose injustice and push the military toward greater fairness.
Jackie Robinson Court Martial
Today’s Right to Fight episode explores a lesser-known chapter in the life of Jackie Robinson—his service in the United States Army during World War II. Long before he broke baseball’s color barrier, Robinson faced segregation and injustice in uniform, including a court-martial for refusing to comply with a discriminatory order while on active duty.
Although he was ultimately acquitted and honorably discharged, Robinson left the Army having learned hard lessons about discipline, restraint, and moral courage under pressure. Those lessons would later define how he carried himself on the national stage, enduring abuse not with silence, but with strength and purpose.
Jackie Robinson’s military experience reminds us that many veterans fight battles at home as well as abroad—and that the courage learned in service often shapes lives far beyond the uniform.
Buffalo Soldiers
Today’s Right to Fight episode honors the legacy of the Buffalo Soldiers, Black Army regiments that served the United States with distinction from the post–Civil War era through the early 20th century. Often assigned to the harshest posts and most demanding missions, these soldiers helped secure the American frontier, built infrastructure, protected national parks, and upheld the rule of law in some of the country’s most difficult environments.
Despite facing segregation, limited opportunity, and unequal treatment, Buffalo Soldiers developed a reputation for discipline, professionalism, and courage that earned the respect of those who served alongside them. Their long record of service laid essential groundwork for the eventual desegregation of the U.S. military and for generations of soldiers who followed.
The story of the Buffalo Soldiers reminds us that progress is sometimes forged not in a single moment—but through decades of steadfast service in the face of adversity.
Major General McNeil - Civil Rights Lunch Counter
Today’s Right to Fight episode honors the life and legacy of Joseph McNeil, a man whose quiet courage helped change the course of American history. As a young Air Force ROTC cadet, McNeil was one of four students who sat down at a Woolworth’s lunch counter in Greensboro, North Carolina in 1960—an act of disciplined, nonviolent protest that helped ignite the modern Civil Rights Movement.
McNeil went on to serve a distinguished career in the United States Air Force, rising to the rank of Major General and later serving as Vice Commander of the Air Force Reserve. To those who served with him—including fellow members of the 514th Military Airlift Wing at McGuire AFB—he was not known as a historic figure, but as a steady leader of integrity, humility, and purpose.
Joe McNeil’s story reminds us that the same discipline that sustains service members in uniform can also give them the moral strength to stand up for justice—quietly, firmly, and without compromise.
Charlie Johnson
Today’s Right to Fight episode honors the extraordinary courage of Charles Johnson, a young soldier whose actions during the Korean War embodied the highest traditions of military service. Serving with the U.S. Army, Johnson repeatedly exposed himself to enemy fire to rescue wounded comrades trapped on the battlefield.
Though gravely wounded, he refused medical aid until others were brought to safety, continuing to direct and assist the evacuation under relentless attack. His selfless bravery saved lives—but ultimately cost him his own. For these actions, Charles Johnson was posthumously awarded the Medal of Honor.
His story reminds us that heroism is often measured not by survival, but by the willingness to place others before oneself—even at the ultimate cost.
Pusan Perimeter
Today’s Right to Fight episode examines the desperate early days of the Korean War and the stand made at the Pusan Perimeter. As United Nations forces fell back in the summer of 1950, the perimeter became the last line of defense against a complete collapse on the peninsula.
In this crucible, integrated American units—many seeing combat together for the first time—fought side by side under relentless pressure. Black troops played a critical role in holding key positions, proving in battle what policy had only recently promised: that cohesion, competence, and courage—not color—determine a unit’s strength.
The stand at Pusan reminds us that sometimes history turns not on a breakthrough, but on the resolve to hold fast when everything is on the line.
Charles David - Dorchester Rescue
Today’s Right to Fight episode honors the courage of Charles David, a U.S. Coast Guard steward whose actions during World War II saved lives under the harshest conditions imaginable. In February 1943, when an Army transport ship was torpedoed by a German submarine off the coast of Greenland, David responded without hesitation.
Working in freezing waters and brutal weather, he repeatedly entered the sea to rescue wounded and exhausted survivors, pulling them to safety at great personal risk. Already weakened by the cold and exposure, Charles David continued until his strength was gone—his actions saving multiple lives before the toll claimed his life weeks later.
His story reminds us that heroism is not confined to rank or role, and that the Coast Guard’s motto—Always Ready—is sometimes fulfilled at the ultimate cost.
WW2 Tank Battalions
Today’s Right to Fight episode brings us into the armored spearhead of World War II, telling the story of Black tank units who proved their worth under fire across Europe. Chief among them was the 761st Tank Battalion, known as the “Black Panthers,” whose motto said it all: Come Out Fighting.
Entering combat late in the war and often doubted by Army leadership, these tankers fought continuously for months through France, Belgium, and Germany, supporting Patton’s Third Army in some of the fiercest fighting of the European campaign. Their performance was exceptional—marked by toughness, discipline, and relentless determination—earning the respect of commanders and fellow soldiers alike.
6888th Postal Battalion
Today’s Right to Fight episode tells the remarkable story of the 6888th Postal Battalion, the only all-Black, all-female unit deployed overseas during World War II. Their mission was simple to state—and nearly impossible to execute: clear a massive backlog of undelivered mail that threatened morale across the European theater.
Working around the clock in cold, dark warehouses stacked floor to ceiling with letters and packages, these Women’s Army Corps soldiers brought order to chaos. Using skill, determination, and discipline, they processed millions of pieces of mail and ensured that service members once again heard from home—often for the first time in months or years.
The women of the 6888th proved that victory depends not only on firepower, but on connection, morale, and resolve. Their story reminds us that sometimes the most important battles are won behind the lines—and that the mail, indeed, must go through.
Della Raney
Today’s Right to Fight episode honors the trailblazing service of Della H. Raney, a woman whose professionalism and perseverance helped open the door for generations of military nurses. During World War II, Raney became the first Black Army nurse commissioned as an officer, serving at a time when both the military and the medical profession remained deeply segregated.
Assigned to care for wounded service members under demanding conditions, Major Raney led by example—demonstrating skill, discipline, and quiet authority in an environment where opportunity was limited and expectations were unfairly low. Her service challenged those assumptions and helped reshape the role of women, and minorities, in military medicine.
Major Della Raney’s story reminds us that healing is also a form of service—and that leadership can change institutions one patient, one unit, and one example at a time.
Montford Point Marines
Today’s Right to Fight episode honors the legacy of the Montford Point Marines, the first Black Marines who trained under segregation during World War II. From 1942 to 1949, these men endured harsher standards, isolation, and skepticism—yet forged an unbreakable bond grounded in discipline, pride, and determination.
After training at Montford Point, North Carolina, they went on to serve with distinction in Pacific campaigns during World War II and later in Korea and Vietnam. Their performance in combat and support roles proved beyond question that excellence in the Marine Corps depends on character and commitment—not color.
The Montford Point Marines remind us that some of the strongest units are forged where the burden is heaviest—and that their service helped pave the way for a fully integrated Marine Corps.
1949 Fighter Competition
Today’s Right to Fight episode highlights a moment when performance spoke louder than prejudice. In 1949, pilots of the Tuskegee Airmen entered the U.S. Air Force’s first official Fighter Gunnery Competition—and won.
Flying against the best fighter units in the Air Force, the Tuskegee Airmen demonstrated superior skill, discipline, and teamwork, earning the top score in the competition. Yet despite their clear victory, recognition was delayed and quietly set aside, reflecting the racial barriers that still shaped military life in the early years of the Air Force.
This episode reminds us that excellence does not always bring immediate acknowledgment—but it does leave an undeniable record. The Tuskegee Airmen proved, once again, that merit in uniform is measured by performance, not prejudice.
Major Hathaway - Vietnam
Today’s Right to Fight episode features a powerful combat film produced by Major Ron Hathaway, U.S. Marine Corps (Ret.), whose distinguished 33-year career reflects a lifetime of service both on the battlefield and beyond.
During the Vietnam War, Major Hathaway served as an enlisted combat cameraman, capturing the courage and resilience of Marines in the heat of action—whether flying aboard helicopters during dangerous remote insertions or working alongside Vietnamese villagers to build trust and understanding. Through his lens, he documented not only combat, but the humanity that can exist even amid the harsh realities of war.
Major Hathaway’s skill, leadership, and commitment to telling the Marine Corps story eventually led to his assignment overseeing all photojournalism for the U.S. Marine Corps. The Armed Forces Heritage Museum is proud to have him serve as a director and project manager, continuing his mission of preserving truth through visual history.
Please join us in viewing this compelling combat film from Vietnam—a vivid reminder of the enduring power of service and the vital role of bearing witness in times of conflict.
Carl Brashear
In today’s Right to Fight Military Moment, we honor Carl Brashear, the first Black Navy diver and a man whose grit redefined what determination looks like. Born to a family of Kentucky sharecroppers, Brashear refused to accept the limits placed before him, pushing through open hostility to graduate from one of the Navy’s most demanding schools. Even after a catastrophic injury that cost him a leg, he fought his way back onto active duty—proving that courage isn’t measured by circumstance, but by resolve.
Carl Brashear’s story is not just about breaking barriers—it’s about persistence, pride, and the unshakable belief that service belongs to those willing to earn it. His legacy continues to inspire generations of Sailors and veterans who face their own uphill battles today.
Chappie James
In today’s Right to Fight Military Moment, we honor Daniel “Chappie” James Jr., a trailblazing fighter pilot who rose from segregation-era America to become the first African American four-star general in the U.S. Air Force. A decorated combat aviator in Korea and Wing Commander in Vietnam, Chappie James earned the respect of his peers through skill, discipline, and steady leadership under pressure.
More than his rank or ribbons, General James believed deeply in duty, country, and unity—once saying that excellence was the most powerful answer to prejudice. His legacy reminds today’s veterans that leadership is built not on barriers faced, but on character displayed, service rendered, and faith kept with those who serve alongside us.
A Phillip Randolph
In today’s Right to Fight Military Moment, we recognize A. Philip Randolph, a labor leader whose courage and persistence reshaped the lives of African Americans in uniform. As founder of the Brotherhood of Sleeping Car Porters, Randolph fought tirelessly for fair treatment and dignity—not only for workers, but for those called to serve their country.
By challenging discrimination in defense industries and pressing Presidents Roosevelt and Truman to desegregate the armed forces, Randolph proved that civilians could profoundly influence military opportunity.
His legacy reminds us that the fight for equality in uniform has often depended on voices outside the ranks—voices willing to stand firm, speak truth, and demand that America live up to its promises for all who serve.
Bob Yancey
Today's Right to Fight episode is an interview with Bob Yancey. veteran of three wars: World War II in the South Pacific as a gunner aboard a Navy minesweeper. The Korean War as a combat infantryman who was at the Chosin Reservoir with temperatures running thirty below zero he fought his way out after being overrun by the Chinese. Then on to Vietnam where he served as a combat medic. Bob Yancey was an inspiration and a true patriot.
Kitty Hawk
In today’s Right to Fight Military Moment, we look at a painful but pivotal event: the 1972 racial violence aboard the aircraft carrier USS Kitty Hawk while deployed in the Vietnam War era. Long-simmering tensions—fed by unequal treatment, limited opportunity, and deep frustration among enlisted sailors—erupted into shipboard fighting that injured dozens and shook Navy leadership at the highest levels.
This episode focuses on what followed: a renewed push to correct systemic problems, strengthen equal opportunity, and improve fairness in daily Navy life. Under Admiral Zumwalt’s leadership, the Navy issued reform directives known as “Z-Grams,” many of which were later incorporated into the Navy’s formal directives system—helping turn hard lessons into lasting policy change.
Military Hymns
With this episode, we conclude our Black History Month presentation of Right to Fight.
Over the past weeks, we have shared the untold and under-told stories of courage, service, sacrifice, and perseverance by men and women of color who strengthened our Armed Forces and our nation. These voices deserve to be heard — and preserved.
Vol 1 Episodes
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.
