African American Military History Museum celebrates its 75th anniversary

HATTIESBURG, Miss. - Many folks were at the African American Military History Museum, also known as East Sixth Street USO, to help celebrate its 75th anniversary.

General manager, Latoya Norman said, "This building is here because a lot of community members know the significance of it. They know that this was a USO, that it had a lot of rich history. Even after it was a USO club, it was a community center, and it was also a school. It would have classes here. So, its had a lot of important roles over the years."

Former USO hostess, Vermell Jackson served in the 40's and spoke about her time being at the building during the event.

"It's just elated. Sometimes very happy, sometimes sad feelings. But, they enjoyed it. They could hardly wait to get on leave and come to the building because they could relax, socialize with the community, and the community was very good about trying to keep them entertained," said Jackson.

Norman said this is the only USO club that is open to the public, and hopes for many good years.

The African American Military History Museum will have its USO Pageant Friday at 7 p.m., which will include five female contestants competing for a scholarship.

The museum will also host a 1940's Community Day and Mississippi Bicentennial Celebration Saturday from 12-4 p.m.