Black History Month Celebration
Spreading Warmth and Joy: ACES Veterans Museum Toy Drive Delivers Hats and Gloves to Veterans in Need
During the holiday season, the spirit of giving was alive and well at ACES Veterans Museum. In a heartwarming initiative, the museum organized a Toy Drive, focusing not only on bringing joy to veterans but also ensuring that they stay warm during the colder months. The highlight of the drive? Hats and gloves for veterans and their families who may be facing challenges.
A Season of Giving Back
The Purpose Behind the Toy Drive
At ACES Veterans Museum, the commitment to supporting our veterans goes beyond commemorating their service. The Toy Drive aimed to uplift the spirits of veterans and their families while addressing a practical need – the warmth and comfort provided by hats and gloves during the winter season.
Community Engagement
The response from the community was overwhelming. Individuals and businesses alike rallied together to contribute to the Toy Drive. Donations poured in, reflecting the collective desire to make a positive impact on the lives of those who have sacrificed so much for our country.
Unwrapping Smiles: Distribution Day
Heartfelt Moments
On the day of distribution, the museum transformed into a hub of excitement and gratitude. Veterans and their families gathered to receive not just material gifts but also a sense of community and support. The atmosphere was filled with smiles, laughter, and a shared understanding of the challenges faced by those who have served.
Beyond the Drive: ACES’s Ongoing Commitment
Extending Support Throughout the Year
The Toy Drive may have been a special event, but ACES Veterans Museum remains dedicated to supporting veterans year-round. Whether through educational programs, community outreach, or future initiatives, the museum continues to be a pillar of support for those who have served.
How You Can Get Involved
Join the Cause
If you’re inspired by ACES Veterans Museum’s commitment to making a difference, consider getting involved. Whether through volunteer opportunities, donations, or simply spreading the word, every effort counts in supporting our veterans.
Stay Tuned for Future Initiatives
The success of the Toy Drive has motivated ACES Veterans Museum to plan more initiatives in the coming months. Stay connected with the museum’s website and social media channels for updates on how you ca
n contribute to upcoming projects.
The ACES Veterans Museum Toy Drive not only brought warmth to the hands and hearts of veterans but also showcased the incredible impact a community can make when it comes together for a common cause. As we approach the holiday season, let this heartwarming initiative serve as a reminder of the power of giving and the enduring spirit of support for those who have served our nation.
Vietnam Memorial Plaque
On Veterans Day, 11/11/2023, Vietnam Veterans gathered at the Vietnam Memorial Plaque situated at ACES Veterans Museum in Philadelphia, PA. Some captured moments at the 800-pound structure. This significant memorial was generously donated to ACES by the Philadelphia Daily News and the Philadelphia Inquirer. Its stabilization was undertaken by the same individual who reinforced the Rocky Statue.
Vietnam Veterans and their families are warmly welcomed during museum hours from 12:00 PM to 4:00 PM, Monday through Thursday. Groups of 10 or more may arrange a special tour.Additionally, ACES houses Parker Hall, a fully operational USO dedicated to Black Veterans of WWII.
A Day to Remember: Aces Veterans Museum Patriots Day Celebration
Patriots Day at the Aces Veterans Museum has always been a cherished occasion for our community. This year, as we celebrated our 22nd Annual Patriots Day, it was more special than ever. The day was marked by heartfelt tributes to our veterans, informative tours, music, food, and a whole lot of fun for families.
Honoring Our Veterans
The heart of our celebration lies in the deep respect and gratitude we hold for our veterans. Throughout the day, we conducted several ceremonies to honor these brave men and women who have dedicated their lives to the service of our country.
The day began with the first ceremony at 1:30 PM, followed by a solemn tribute at the Vietnam Plaque at 3:00 PM. We continued to honor veterans with ceremonies at 3:30 PM and 4:30 PM, concluding the day with a final ceremony at 5:30 PM. These moments allowed our community to come together and express our thanks and support for those who have sacrificed so much.
Enlightening Museum Tours
Our museum came alive with informative tours provided by our dedicated volunteers. From 12:00 PM to 5:00 PM, visitors had the opportunity to delve deep into the rich history and stories behind the artifacts. These tours aimed to ensure that the legacy of our veterans remains vivid and impactful.
Music, Food, and Fun
No celebration is complete without music and delicious food! We had live music throughout the day, setting the perfect atmosphere for reflection and community bonding. A variety of food options satisfied the palates of our visitors, and for the little ones, we had engaging games and activities to ensure everyone had a fantastic time.
Community Spirit
The Aces Veterans Museum thrives on the strength of our community. It was heartwarming to see our community members come together to commemorate Patriots Day. Your presence and participation added to the depth and significance of the event, making it a day to remember.
As we look back on this year’s Patriots Day Celebration, we extend our deepest gratitude to our veterans, volunteers, sponsors, and all those who attended. Your support and enthusiasm are the driving force behind events like these.
Our commitment to honoring veterans and preserving their legacies continues throughout the year. Stay tuned for updates on upcoming events at the Aces Veterans Museum. We welcome you to be a part of our community and join us in our mission.
Thank you for being an essential part of our journey, and we look forward to seeing you at our next event!
Celebrating 100 Remarkable Years: Happy Birthday, Corporal Benjamin Berry!
We have the immense honor of celebrating a true hero and an inspiration to us all – Corporal Benjamin Berry, a World War II veteran who turns an incredible 100 years old on 9/24/23. As we gather to honor this milestone, we’re reminded of the indomitable spirit, sacrifice, and bravery that define his remarkable journey.
A Legacy of Valor: From the Battle of the Bulge to a Century of Wisdom
Corporal Benjamin Berry’s life story is a testament to resilience and dedication. Serving in the U.S. Army during World War II and fighting in the Battle of the Bulge, he displayed unwavering courage in the face of adversity. His contributions, along with those of his fellow servicemen, played an instrumental role in securing the freedom and peace we cherish today.
As we celebrate his 100th birthday, we also celebrate a life lived with purpose and determination. The wisdom he’s gained through the years is invaluable, and his experiences serve as a reminder of the sacrifices made by veterans in the pursuit of a better world.
A Remarkable Birthday Wish
In true selfless fashion, Corporal Benjamin Berry has made a unique birthday request. Instead of receiving gifts, he’s asked his supporters to make a donation to the Aces Veterans Museum. This museum, dedicated to preserving the stories and legacies of veterans, holds a special place in his heart, and his wish reflects his commitment to ensuring that the sacrifices of veterans are remembered and honored.
Join Us in Celebrating Corporal Benjamin Berry
On this momentous occasion, let us join together to celebrate Corporal Benjamin Berry’s century of life, service, and wisdom. Your well-wishes and heartfelt messages are a testament to the impact he’s had on all of us.
And if you’d like to honor his birthday wish, consider making a donation to the Aces Veterans Museum. Your contribution will not only pay tribute to Corporal Berry’s remarkable journey but also support a cause that resonates deeply with his values.
Happy 100th Birthday, Corporal Benjamin Berry! Your legacy of valor and your birthday wish inspire us to be better, to remember, and to give back. Here’s to a century of memories and to the years yet to come.
Warmest wishes,
Althea Hankins M.D
Director
Aces Veterans Museum
Serving Beyond the Battlefield: A Veteran’s Journey and Artistic Legacy – Walter Allen Roger Jr.
Walter Allen Roger Jr. is a distinguished Airforce Veteran, educator, and multi-disciplinary artist whose life’s work revolves around the themes of love, commitment, and sacrifice. Born in 1968 in Cleveland, Ohio, Roger’s journey has encompassed a remarkable range of creative and impactful endeavors.
Deeply passionate about education, Roger believes that nurturing young minds is pivotal to a brighter future. He advocates for providing comprehensive education from pre-K to 12th grade, recognizing the potential it holds in shaping a child’s world.
His reverence for veterans, seniors, and families is evident in his commitment to respecting and enhancing the care of those who have dedicated their lives to securing our freedom. He reminds us that these individuals are the cornerstone of our safety and the reason we can enjoy our liberties.
Roger’s engagement in cultural arts is emblematic of his belief in the freedom of expression. He envisions a world where opportunities for artistic practice are abundant and accessible, promoting creativity and diverse cultural narratives.
Amidst these passions, Roger is a prolific visual artist. His notable works include the iconic painting “Harlem Butterflies,” featured in the WVIZ/PBS Ideastream special “Karamu 100 Hundred Years in the House.” This painting has become a part of the esteemed Karamu Art Collection, reflecting Roger’s influence on the artistic landscape.
Roger’s artistic journey spans decades, with his works exhibited across prestigious institutions. His commitment to promoting African American artists led to the creation of a list showcasing talents from Cleveland, Harlem, Atlanta, Chicago, Los Angeles, and beyond. This initiative fosters a vibrant community of actors, musicians, poets, sculptors, and other creatives.
Throughout his career, Roger has collaborated with numerous organizations and institutions. Notably, he presented the original artwork “Many Faces…One Voice” to the United Nations on behalf of Cleveland, leaving an indelible mark on the global stage.
His deep connection to his hometown of Cleveland is evident in his role as a photojournalist for the CRUSADER ARTS, ENTERTAINMENT & NEWS and the CALL & POST publications. He has also contributed extensively to his community through art workshops, exhibitions, and murals.
Walter Allen Roger Jr.’s creative journey embodies his unwavering dedication to education, veterans, cultural expression, and the arts. His work, spanning visual arts, literature, and advocacy, serves as a testament to his enduring commitment to enriching lives through knowledge, creativity, and empathy.
See Artist Website to see more of his works: http://www.walterallenrogersjr.com
Roger will be making an appearance along with his art on 10/16/2023 at Aces Veterans Museum.
Vietnam War Veteran’s Day March 28th 2022
Aces Veterans Museum Honored at Eagles vs. Commanders Game
On November 14th, the Eagles and Commanders had a special Monday night game dedicated to recognizing the contributions of minority veterans. As part of this event, Aces Veterans Museum was honored for its commitment to preserving the memory and legacy of our veterans. Not only did they recognize past accomplishments but also celebrated one very special veteran–Corporal Benjamin Berry, a 98-year-old World War II veteran who served in the U.S. Army and fought in the Battle of the Bulge.
This night was an incredible way to pay tribute to all those extraordinary people who have served our nation so valiantly throughout history—especially Corporal Benjamin Berry who at 98 years old proved that courage is ageless! This event was also a reminder that we should never forget what these brave individuals have done for us, and how their story lives on within Aces Veterans Musuem.
Corporal Benjamin Berry, A World War II Veteran
Day Of Honor (History)
Introduction
On January 13, 1997, President Clinton presented the nation’s highest valor award to seven African American soldiers, declaring “history has been made whole” at last for black heroes of World War II.
Only one of the seven was present to accept the award. The others were all deceased.
After the long-awaited ceremony, Arlene Fox, the widow of one honoree, described it as a vindication not just for her husband and the other men but “for black people everywhere. A great injustice has been righted.”
The White House ceremony attended by many of the honorees’ descendants and Pentagon officials, the president declared that the legacy of segregation and prejudice had long denied any black World War II veteran of equal valor the Medal of Honor.
But in the end, the deeds of our African American Veterans, Clinton said, “could not be denied. . . . Today America is profoundly thankful for the patriotism and the nobility of these men” and for their example, which “helped us find a way to become a more just, more free nation . . . more worthy of them and more true to its ideals.”
Borinqueneers Day
Borinqueneers Day
It was such an honor to celebrate Borinqueneers Day. Congress designated April 13 as National Borinqueneers Day. During the Korean War, the 65th Infantry Regiment was known as “The Borinqueneers.” The name honors the Taíno Indians, who were the original inhabitants of Puerto Rico or Borinquen Island. Their efforts during the Korean War proved to be inval. The Borinqueneers were awarded numerous accolades, including about 2,700 Purple Hearts, 600 Bronze Stars, 250 Silver Stars, 9 Distinguished Serve Crosses, and 1 Medal of Honor. The 65th Infantry Regiment was the only Hispanic-segregated unit in U.S. Army history and among the last segregated units to be deactivated in 1954.
Today, we remember them for their tremendous bravery and courage during some of the toughest battles of the Korean War. We acknowledge those who made the ultimate sacrifice while protecting our freedom.
Gallery
