by Shawn Nowlin
History has a way of overlooking the contributions made by African Americans. Whether it is their inventions or countless accomplishments, many minorities have never gotten the proper credit they deserve. A multitude of ethnicities have bravely served in the US military over the last few decades–yet only to have their contributions minimized.
However that has not always been the case. In 1940s, Roanoke native William Dabney joined the military to fight for his country even though at the time that same country treated him like a second-class citizen. On June 6, 1944, Dabney as a corporal, was a member of a battalion that stormed Omaha Beach during World World II.
The Harrison Museum of African American Culture (HMAAC) hosted a two-teared presentation Tuesday, Nov. 10 honoring Dabney. The affair, which gave those in attendance chills at times – also involved a reception for author Linda Hervieux who talked about her latest book “Forgotten: The Untold Story of D-Day’s Black Heroes at home and at War.”
Those in attendance (approx. 75) were fully entranced by powerful stories and vivid images of WWII showed on a projection screen. Topics broached throughout the event included – but were not limited to: truly understanding our past so we can create a better future, creative ways on how we can all make a difference and of course the impact African Americans have made to society over the years.Hervieux candidly talked about her inspiration to write the book. The project has been described as “the story of an all-black battalion whose crucial contributions on D-Day have gone unrecognized to the present.” City Councilwoman Anita Price, Mayor Dave Bowers and other notable faces were present. Transparent about his past, Dabney had no problem openly talking about what he has experienced throughout his life. “I’m just so thankful to be here today to tell my story,” said Dabney who is now in his ’90s. It’s not a stretch to say that his time in the military corresponded with some of the most significant years in American military history.
The Harrison Museum is a state of the art facility that also hosts a variety of events throughout the year. Museums with events like this are necessary to spotlight the (often hidden) history as the African Americans of D-Day.
“We can’t say enough about all of the brave individuals who defend our country with such pride and honor,” said Charles Price, museum director. In recognition of his bravery, Corporal Dabney received the Legion of Honor from the French Government in 2009.
Once devalued because of color lines, the stories of William Dabney and countless others on many fronts are celebrated thanks to the vision of skilled writers like Linda Hervieux. Such works re-wright history and ultimately create a more balanced society.
