Philadelphia author Yvonne Latty, whose book “We Were There,” I told you about here emailed to say she was part of a documentary film tonight, Honor Deferred, at 8 p.m. on the History Channel.
Latty describes the documentary:
Honor Deferred tells the moving and powerful stories of the seven African Americans who won the Medal of Honor for their service in World War II, fifty years after the fact, More than a million African Americans served in the war, but because of their race none were given the medal until President Clinton awarded it these seven men.
Only one was still alive.
The documentary is narrated by Samuel L. Jackson and is produced by Al Roker Productions. The coolest thing about is that there are mini movies within the documentary that tell the stories of their experiences and why they were awarded the medal. It’s not just a bunch of talking heads speaking over old photographs. It’s very moving. At the preview both Al Roker and the director Nick Bridgen, told me it is the work they are the most proud of in their career. It’s easy to see why when you watch the film. –Yvonne
Latty told me she appears in the documentary. By the way, her book “We Were There,” with photos by Philadelphia photographer Ron Tarver is also very moving. Its stories of African American soldiers and their participation in the army during times of war and after are full of injustice and sometimes the triumph over injustice all captured by Latty’s gripping prose. It’s a great book and we’re very proud of our local author and friend!
