Black Valor

This is the second episode on the 369th Infantry Regiment.  I discuss the politics behind the formation of the regiment.  Also, I discuss the controversy on NFL players kneeling during the National Anthem.  The next episode will cover the initial outfitting of the unit and preparations for going overseas.

The hiatus of the Black Valor podcast is over!  This episode marks the beginning of a new series commemorating the 369th Infantry Regiment and 100 year anniversary of WWI. Also, I discuss some of the reasons for the long delay and why this podcast is more relevant than ever, with the current racial climate in America.  

Consider Episode 17 the first of four or five podcasts that focus on aspects of the 369th’s WWI legacy.  Episode 18 will arrive in two weeks and cover the politics that led to the formation of the regiment and the famous 369th band.

If you are an old listener, thank you for your patience and I promise to reward your diligence with fresh new content.  For new listeners, welcome and I recommend listening to the older podcasts while you wait for the new episode.

For Woman’s  History Month I detail the capture of Spc Shoshana Johnson, during the 2nd Iraqi war.  Spc Johnson was the first African-American woman POW.  

The 1st Rhode Island Regiment is known as the first all black regiment.  While that description is not completely accurate they unit was truly exceptional.  This episode details the founding, composition and battles of the 1st Rhode Island Regiment.

Episode 14 gives a brief history of the  960th Quartermaster Service Company.  The all black unit was formed in World War II and served in Scotland, France, Netherlands, Belgium and Germany.

General Daniel “Chappie” James Jr. served in the Air Force for 35 years.  He began his career as one of the famed Tuskegee Airmen and retired as a 4-star general.  He was the first black officer of any of the services to attain the rank of General.  General James was also an accomplished fighter pilot who participated in three major wars and won accolades for his commitment to civic issues in America.  This episode briefly explores Daniel James’ incredible life.

Many people know about the famed Tuskegee Airmen who were fighter pilots, but few knew of the first black bombardment group.  For episode 12 I describe the history of the 477th Bombardment Group.  The 477th was the first and last bomber group.  Listen to this episode to discover how race and politics kept this group out of the war.

This is the third and final part of my interview with MSgt Jerome Baysmore (retired).  Enjoy the conclusion of this wonderful interview.  Our next podcast will finally highlight members of the United States Air Force.

This is part 2 of the interview with MSgt Jerome Baysmore.  In this section he talks about his numerous deployments.Parts three will be uploaded shortly after this episode.  If you prefer to download the complete interview, it will be available under the podcast tab on the site:www.blackvalor.net.

In honor of Black History month, I wanted to highlight one of America’s unsung heroes.  It has been a while since I was able to post, but Black Valor is back.  Here is the long promised interview with MSgt Jerome Baysmore (retired).  The interview is broken down into three parts, to make it easier to listen to.  In part one, MSgt Baysmore shares the hilarious experience that convinced him to join the Air Force.  Later, he talks about some memorable events that occurred during his basic training.Parts two and three will be uploaded shortly after this episode.  If you prefer to download the complete interview, it will be available under the podcast tab on the site: www.blackvalor.net.