During WWII American soldiers went to war and risked it all for our country. But for a special unit of black men, they weren’t only battling the enemy abroad; they were fighting for their right to fight.

The story of the Tuskegee airmen is a chapter not often told in our history books. However, playwright/director Layon Gray is working to change that with Black Angels over Tuskegee.

Since it’s off-Broadway debut in New York City, Black Angels has received several awards including the 2009 NAACP award for best ensemble.

But for actors like Lamman Rucker, the project has been a labor of love.

“It’s very empowering and very humbling. Based on achievements and the sacrifices that they made, it opened the door for other people just to be in the military, not to mention what they were doing for the entire Negro race,” said Rucker.

Although there are some great lighthearted moments, the play is most powerful when we witness the struggles between and within each character.

Black Angels Over Tuskegee tells the story of a courageous and pivotal time in our nation’s history…not just for blacks, but for all Americans.