He Overcame More than Gravity: The First African American Marine Aviator

Marines are known as the few and the proud, ready to take on any mission, but none faced the immense challenges that Frank Petersen did when he joined the U.S. Navy in 1950 and applied for a Marine Corps commission. After becoming the first African American Marine aviator, Petersen pioneered "first" in every aspect of his career throughout the Korean and Vietnam wars, culminating with his selection as the first African American Marine Corps General. Join us for the compelling story of General Petersen and the racial transformation of the Marine Corps.

[@fumfoliver1501]

Served as his clerk 1984-85 when he was CO of MAG-32.. Great man, Great Marine...

[@fierceforheaven1755]

My Uncle served with General Petersen in Korea I have a great picture of them by the Corsair in Korea. They remained great friends thru out their lives. My Uncle Bob was white and he was sick of the segregation, he truly loved Frank.
Happy Veterans Day!!!

[@kaycox5555]

American hero, very humble. Thank you for your service, sir.

[@8fox261]

The USMC made the right choice for their first black officer/ Naval Aviator. LTGEN Petersen is one tough, sharp individual.

[@matrox]

That was an Interesting speech. RIP...March 2, 1932, -
Died: August 25, 2015,

[@maureencora1]

Heaven is for Heroes.

[@ghostbear200123]

Real Motivator.
SEMPER FI‼️🍻

[@malcolmjules6445]

Frank was the man.

[@robertbruce1552]

Like Jack said he was the best.

[@lewiserwin2686]

What an amazing story

[@joijaxx]

Love! Wish I would have had the opportunity to meet him. Great interview.

[@maureencora1]

Flying Buffalo Sea Soldier / U.S. Marine. Heaven is for Heroes, R.I.P. Semper-Fi, Sir.

[@marcusjustice6165]

Black Marine Corps History: When He was a Major General The Late Lieutenant General Frank E Peterson made a stopover at Marine Barracks Guam MI in 1983 he was accompanied by another Black officer who was a Captain. Afro Air Wingers inspecting Afro Grunts in formation. In 1985 While stationed at MCB Camp Lejeune at The Naval Hospital, I saw The Late Sergeant Major Edgar R Huff accompanied by his Late wife as he was getting medical treatment. So While on Active Duty, I was in The Presence of The First Black Marine General Officer and The First Black Marine Sergeant Major.
Frank E. Peterson and Edgar R Huff. USMC MOS 0311 Afro Grunt 1982 to 1985.

[@vlera8447]

Thank you for sharing this information!

[@ronaldmarshall4054]

outstanding

[@bguddafool]

great job

[@vlera8447]

The Smithsonian is one of our nation's greatest institutions. Thank you for this historic lecture.

[@2Tall03XX]

SFMF!!