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African-American World War II veterans share their stories

Mary Pickels

The new WQED documentary, “The Good Fight,” tells the stories of African-American veterans and war workers during World War II.

Premiering at 8 p.m. Feb. 13, the documentary will rebroadcast at 7:30 p.m. Feb. 17 and Feb. 27, and will be available digitally at wqed.org/the-good-fight following its initial airing.

According to WQED, “The Good Fight” celebrates members of “The Greatest Generation,” African-American men and women who served their country.

Over 75 years after the D-Day invasion, WQED shares the stories of World War II veterans and war workers battling racism at home while fighting for democracy overseas. Written and produced by Chris Moore and Minette Seate, the documentary introduces viewers to Americans who share the experiences that helped make history.

African-Americans have played a role in the nation’s defense since the American Revolution. World War II was no exception, with an estimated 1.2 million black Americans serving on the home front and overseas, WQED notes.

Through interviews and archival footage, the documentary shares the legacy of these southwestern Pennsylvanians and their lasting impact on American civil rights.

Featured segments include:

• Henry Parham, believed to be the last surviving African-American veteran to land on Omaha Beach during the D-Day Invasion

• Althea Skelton, a Schenley High School graduate who worked as an electrician, helping to build B-29 bombers

• The Tuskegee Airmen Memorial. The Sewickley Cemetery is home to the largest outdoor memorial of its kind, dedicated to the famed black fighter pilots.

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Courtesy of the National Archives and Records Administration
Althea Skelton, center, and other women pose in front of an American bomber. They and thousands of other African-American women served on the homefront during World War II.
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Courtesy of WQED
The Tuskegee Airmen Memorial, located in Sewickley Cemetery.
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Courtesy of WQED
World War II veteran Eugene Boyer and his son, Eugene Boyer II, pose with Chris Moore and Minette Seate during their interview for the WQED documentary "The Good Fight."
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