For Immediate Release
Contact: Charles Blatcher
Phone: 510-467-9242
Email: cnmmmf@aol.com
(To view this photo in a larger format, click here)Oakland, California, November 8, 2013 — The National Coalition of Black Veterans Organizations (NCBVO) raises public awareness of the historic and contemporary contributions of African Americans in the military. The organization is advocating for the honorary promotion of Colonel Charles Young to Brigadier General. Colonel Young was a Buffalo Soldier, statesman, Diplomat, and third black graduate of West Point. His list of firsts is broad: first black military attaché, first black superintendent of the National Park Service, and first black to achieve the rank of colonel, to name some. Because of his contributions, NCBVO commissioned sculptor Antonio Tobias Mendez to create a bronze casting of a maquette honoring Colonel Young that will be presented to the White House during Black History Month next year. “Our ultimate goal is to have a monument erected in Washington, DC that honors Colonel Young,” says Charles Blatcher, NCBVO Chairman.
Support to do so is growing. Judge James L. “Buddy” Gallenstein, of Mason County, Kentucky, speaks of Colonel Young with pride. “The citizens of Mason County, Kentucky, Colonel Young’s birthplace, feel he deserves his place in history. A distinguished military career and diplomacy during segregation are a testament to Colonel Young’s fortitude and selfless devotion to the United States of America,” he concludes. Lt. General Arthur Gregg, USA Retired; Lt. General William Ward, USA Retired; Major General Errol Schwartz; and Brigadier General Robert Cocroft, USA Retired are among military leaders engaged in spreading the message of Colonel Young’s contributions. They are also on the viewing committee that ensures the authenticity of castings the sculptor creates of Colonel Young’s likeness. Congresswoman Barbara Lee requested that President Obama grant Colonel Young the highest military ranking. “I remain committed as ever to ensuring that the sacrifice, dedication, and service that Colonel Charles Young gave to this country are recognized in full,” she says.
An educational tour and major fundraisers will kick off next year. Twelve more maquettes will be added to the current one, each representing the thirteen original colonies. To learn more about the campaign, contact Blatcher at 510-467-9242 or via e-mail, cnmmmf@aol.com.
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