The African American Military History Museum will host its Annual Veterans Open House on Wednesday, Nov. 6 from 11 a.m. until 1 p.m.
At 11:30 a.m., the recipient of the inaugural Alvin Eaton Champion Award will be announced. The award will be given to an individual or organization that has championed support and services on behalf of veterans.
The award's namesake, SSGT Alvin Eaton, was a United States Air Force and Vietnam Veteran. He was a leader in the restoration of the East Sixth Street USO, now home to the African American Military History Museum.
"Mr. Eaton found joy in recognizing people for their good work and his spirit of giving impacted so many, especially us here at the Sixth Street Museum District," Director of Museums Latoya Norman said. "It's so fitting that we honor his legacy of service to his country and community."
Eaton served the Hattiesburg Community through his career at both WDAM and the City of Hattiesburg, and through his involvement with the Boy Scouts of America, Forrest County NAACP and the Hattiesburg Chamber of Commerce.
Light refreshments will be served and there will be a special token of appreciation presented to all veterans in attendance. This is a come and go event. It is free and open to the public.
The Second Annual Cocktail Social at the Historic USO Club will be Nov. 9 from 6 to 9 p.m. at the African American Military History Museum. “The social is an opportunity to support and show appreciation for veterans that is reminiscent of when it was a USO,” Operations and Education Supervisor Vanessa Molden said.
The evening's festivities will include live music by the Bass Rhythms and Grooves Band, food, drinks and museum tours. This ticketed event is in partnership with MSG David Brooks and MSG Torrence Green. "We wanted an event at the USO where veterans can come together with community members and have a good time," MSG David Brooks said.
Tickets are $25 per person and can be purchased by CashApp, $GreenUnited or in person with cash at the African American Military History Museum, located at 305 East Sixth St. in Hattiesburg.
