ST. LOUIS COUNTY — There is a new exhibit at the St. Louis County government building and it's bringing a history lesson about some important people who broke barriers while fighting for our country.
Sunday was the dedication of the Tuskegee Airmen Exhibit and organizers are encouraging everyone to come out and learn about the legacy of this diverse group of people who forever changed history.
For the past 30 years, retired major Yolondea Wood has collected paintings and photographs of the Tuskegee Airmen and Airwomen. Now she’s decided to loan these delicate pieces to the county government building to inspire others, especially the youth.
"Some of the pictures have been autographed by probably 50 Tuskegee Airmen. A lot of times young people and old people they like to say oh woe is me my life is hard, you just don't understand and every generation has challenges," Wood said.
Some of the challenges Tuskegee Airmen overcame were segregation and prejudice. Before 1940, African Americans were blocked from flying in the US military, but thanks to civil rights organizations, that changed in 1941 and the Tuskegee Airmen group was formed.
"That little action changed history for both black and white because the Tuskegee Airmen had a job to protect the bombers not to become aces, not to become stars, to do the work that needed to be done," Wood said.
Part of that work involved the group learning to fly and maintain combat aircraft. This skill set caused them to become one of the most highly respected fighter groups of World War II, that’s why Wood is working hard to make sure that history is never forgotten.
"I try to make sure that the story gets heard and one of the best ways to do that is to collect the artwork and all the artifacts so that they can be enjoyed," Wood said.
And she had a special message for anyone who doubts their ability to be great and change history.
“We have to believe in ourselves and the Tuskegee Airmen believed in themselves so much and that's a lesson that anyone can benefit from old and young. Hero's come in all sizes and sometimes the hero's look just like you," Wood said.
Wood said the government building is a great location because it gives the public a chance to learn about this incredible group that changed the course of history. The Tuskegee Airmen Exhibit will be on display in the lobby of the St. Louis County Government Building for at least one year.
