Historian to highlight WWII supply transportation service Feb. 14

The Milford Museum American History Series will present Dante Brizill speaking on “The Red Ball Express” at 1 p.m., Saturday, Feb. 14, at Milford Public Library, 11 SE Front St., Milford.

Following the D-Day invasion of World War II, the United States Army and its allies needed a reliable transport service to carry the tons of supplies, food and munitions needed to equip the troops who were fighting their way across Europe to destroy the German war machine. Because aircraft were needed for combat duties, truck transportation was the only available option. Taking its name from a 19th century American priority railroad service known as Red Ball, this new mission became known as the Red Ball Express. Nearly 75% of the drivers for this operation, key to the Allied victory, were African American individuals.

Currently teaching at Polytech High School, Brizill has been a social studies educator in Delaware and Maryland for the past 22 years. A Philadelphia native, he has a bachelor of arts degree in history from Hampton University and a master of education degree from Wesley College. A published author, Brizill has written a series titled “Greatness Under Fire” that highlights African American heroes of World War II.

Sponsored by the Milford Museum, these monthly programs focus on a variety of topics concerning local, state and national history. For more information, contact the museum at 302-424-1080 or email tom@milfordDEmuseum.org. The programs are offered through a generous grant from the Delaware Heritage Commission.