A New Exhibit at the Great Plains Black History Museum Honors the Veterans Who Shaped History

The Great Plains Black History Museum has opened a powerful new exhibit honoring the courage, resilience, and historic service of African Americans in the U.S. Armed Forces. “Tuskegee Airmen & Those Who Served: Nebraskans in Military Service” is on display through Jan. 1, highlighting the stories of the Tuskegee Airmen who once called Nebraska home, alongside the stories of local Black veterans whose service helped reshape the course of American history.

The exhibit brings together archival photographs, personal narratives, military records, and historic artifacts that illuminate the lives of the Black servicemen and servicewomen who fought for a country that did not always fight for them. Their service did more than defend the nation; they challenged discrimination, broke barriers, and helped inspire the movements for equality that followed.

Earlier this week, the museum hosted a U.S. Navy reenlistment ceremony inside the exhibit, a moving reminder that these stories are not simply history; they remain living legacies carried forward by today’s servicemembers. The ceremony reinforced what the museum has long championed: North Omaha is home to rich stories of service, leadership, and sacrifice that deserve to be preserved and shared.

The Great Plains Black History Museum invites visitors of all ages to experience this exhibit and explore the deep, often overlooked contributions of Black veterans from Nebraska and across the nation. Their courage not only protected America, but it also expanded what was possible for African Americans in uniform and accelerated the fight for equality at home.

This exhibit stands as a tribute to all who served with honor, resilience, and unshakeable pride.

Plan your visit to learn more and experience the exhibit firsthand: gpblackhistorymuseum.org