Orlando Senior Community Host Art Exhibit in Recognition of Jesse Leroy Brown, the Navy’s First African-American Aviator
On November 28, 2009 an artist reception was held at Oakmonte Village at Lake Mary featuring the art of Carl Rapheal Purdy in the exhibit, “A Pilot Lights the Way: A Tribute to Jesse Leroy Brown and Blacks in Aviation.” The exhibit curated by Valada Parker Flewellyn, premiered at the University of Central Florida Library in September and opened at Oakmonte Village on Veterans Days. “A Pilot Lights the Way…” will travel for the next two years in celebration of 100 years of Naval Aviation.
Jesse Leroy Brown (1926-1950) was a native of Hattiesburg, Mississippi. Brown was the first African American killed in the Korean War and the first to have a ship named in his honor. A picture of the USS Jesse Leroy Brown is on display along with pictures, books and other artifacts contributed by the Naval Aviation Museum and members of Jesse’s squadron 32. Jesse Leroy Brown was killed when his plane was shot down my enemy fire in the Chosin Reservoir area of Korea. A heroic attempt to rescue Jesse was made by squadron member, Lt. (J.G.) Thomas Hudner, Jr. who was awarded the Medal of Honor for his effort. The Medal of Honor is the highest military decoration awarded by the United States government. Only 3,448 Medal of Honors have been awarded since it was established by Gen. George Washington, August 7, 1782.
After leaving Korea, squadron 32 was stationed for two years at the Naval Base in Sanford, Florida, which is now the Sanford International Airport. Mr. Hudner has been invited to return to Sanford in March 2010 to unveil his portrait, that artist Carl Purdy is currently working on. During his visit The Honorable Lt. Rt. Thomas Hudner, Jr. will be a guest at Oakmonte Village at Lake Mary.
The artist reception program included: A welcome by Julie Fernandez, Director of Marketing at Oakmonte Village, an introduction of artist Carl R. Purdy by Valada Flewellyn and memories of Jesse Leroy Brown shared by former shipmate, Deacon Troy Demps, who shared his experiences as the steward for Jesse L. Brown. He also engaged the audience in art of Hymn Lining by instructing and then leading them in the singing of a hymn that he lined. Former State Representative Dr. Alzo Reddick, who is responsible for reviving the story of Jesse Leroy Brown, told the story of Ensign Brown and a video, prepared by EYESEEIMAGES Productions under the direction of curator Valada Parker Flewellyn, was shared with the audiences before the viewing of the exhibit. It was a wonderfully informative and entertaining evening for all who attended. The exhibit is on display through December at Oakmonte Village at Lake Mary. Please call for more information.
Oakmonte Village is a new 25-acre luxury senior living community in the heart of prestigious Lake Mary, Florida. Ideally located for ease and convenience, Oakmonte Village is within easy reach of many local Orlando amenities such as parks, walking trails, lakes, and more. For more information on our Senior Living Community contact us today.
Julie Fernandez, Director of Marketing
Oakmonte Village at Lake Mary
407.732.5800
www.oakmontevillage.com
Orlando Senior Living | Oakmonte Village December 15, 2009
