A torch was passed in Orlando this past weekend. Greatness succumbed to destiny and a new generation was bestowed with the responsibility of maintaining the human spirit. Conviction, dedication’s first cousin, was on display and it happened, here in Orlando.
The Annual Tuskegee Airmen Luncheon, held Saturday at the Rosen Centre on International Drive was surely the place to be. The General Daniel “Chappie” James, Jr. Chapter Annual Educational Luncheon claims that its mission is “to provide funds to Florida students to further their education and enhance their future aspirations”. It does that and more, every year.
But, this was different. This year, the Tuskegee Airmen demonstrated in plain view why they made all of those sacrifices so many years ago. Because, amongst the many consequences of those World War II missions was this particular luncheon and its choice of a keynote speaker.
Lucas Boyce, a young man by anyone’s observation, is a young Black man. Not just any young black man, unless of course one that worked for a President of the United States, regularly flown aboard Air Force One, and is now an executive with the Orlando Magic at age 31. A young man who proudly tells of his humble beginnings as the abandoned offspring of a drugged out, teen mom, who never knew his father.
Mr. Boyce reminded everyone in the room why the Tuskegee Airmen will forever serve as the evidence of triumph, good over evil, morals over logic. Boyce is proof that, yes, we can prevail against all odds. And then some.
But, what is the connection between a Black Air Force squadron that flew 15,000 combat missions in the 1940’s and a young African American man who worked in the Bush II White House? What similarities can be drawn between the son of a crack whore and a rejected war hero? Well, it all goes back to that destiny-responsibility thing mentioned in the first paragraph.
It is incumbent amongst all of us to put aside the ridiculous notion that we are all alone and that life is about us and our needs at the moment. We are all a part of the greater good. It is inherent upon us to do that one thing, to make our ultimate contribution to the estate of humanity. And, its far easier than we’ll ever realize.
As generations come and go, there is a mysterious choreography of human dynamics that seem to escape most of us. Its subtle, but promised. Its aloof, yet assured. The great handing off, the baton passing, the moving on-ness of it all as the Old validates the Young and leaves an estate of its greatest accomplishments.
Great coverage — thank you West Orlando News for embracing our American Icons!
It is heartwarming to see the community made aware of the efforts of the Chappie James, Jr. Chapter to assist Young People in their hope to rise above the average.
I missed this year’s event due to illness, but hope to be available for the next happening. Let’s all pull together to help those who want to succeed. The village mentality does work.