Annual Black History Program Celebrated Contributions to Labor and Society

The annual black history program at the Hearne High School was a celebration of the contributions of Black Americans contributions to the building of the country both physically and socially. 
The students, from elementary to high school, each had a part to play in teaching about the history of African Americans and their contributions. The high school gym was packed with parents, teachers and schoolmates during the February 27 event. 
One group of young ladies told the story of the 6888th Central Postal Directory Battalion, nicknamed the "Six Triple Eight". The Six Triple Eight was an all-Black battalion of the US Women's Army Corps (WAC) that managed postal services. The 6888th had 855 women and was led by Major Charity Adams. It was the only all Black US Women's Army Corps unit sent overseas during World War II. The group motto was "No mail, low morale". Ava Daily, Chyna Curry, Hailee Moody, Island Scott, Jouree Evans, Jumiyah Burrell, Madelyn Jackson, Majesty McDaniel, and Makhi Dunn were excellent in their roles as members of the battalion. 
The Hearne Basketball team wowed the crowds with their tricks, flips and finger twirls as they portrayed the Harlem Globetrotters. The Globetrotters began as an exhibition team in the 1920's to boost catering dollars at the famous Savoy Theatre in Chicago. The team was one of the best exhibition teams in the states and was a major force in basketball throughout the 1950's. In 1950, Harlem Globetrotter Chuck Cooper became the first black player to be drafted in the NBA by Boston and teammate Nat "Sweetwater" Clifton became the first black player to sign an NBA contract when the New York Knicks purchased his contract from the Globetrotters. This is when the team became an icon of basketball prowess as they added their signature moves to the courts. The team still inspires young people to achieve the impossible through practice and determination, and the Eagles basketball team will show the Globetrotters spirit when they take the court tonight in San Antonio. 
The Hearne parents, teachers, staff and administrators were very proud of all the students who contributed to the annual program. They also want to thank the community for coming out to support the youth in their educational endeavors.