Veterans recognized at Black Archives luncheon

By Ashley Luthans

Veterans earned a special salute on Thursday at an event honoring Black service members in the area.

Those who served in the military shared stories and experiences at a lunch at the Black Archives Museum.

James Johnson, who served overseas for 10 years in three different branches of the military, said recognizing veterans is important.

”You know, veterans go through a lot,” he said. “I mean, they go through a whole lot. And people don’t realize that when you’re in the service and stuff like that, you’re going away from home, you’re away from your family, you’re away from everybody that you know.”

Paul Gatewood, a former Marine and current member of the Black Archives committee, said that as someone involved in several veterans’ groups, he wants to see more diversity in the organizations. He said the committee decided to hold this lunch to celebrate Black veterans, who don’t get as much recognition.

”In the service, when you’re in a conflict, when you’re in training, whatever you’re doing, you don’t see color,” Gatewood said. “You absolutely do not see color. You see a brother next to you or a sister that’s trying to save your back. And that needs to continue. We need to recognize everybody, not just one group.”

The museum also asked attendees to provide photos to record military service from the St. Joseph area in the Black Archives.

Veterans Day is on Monday, Nov. 11.