‘The Shoulders of Giants’ How Preserving Military History Will Inspire Future Generations to Come w/Museum Specialist Jonathan Holmes

Visit: www.aamhsociety.org To support the museum and this amazing project! In this episode of the HeroFront Podcast, we are honored to welcome Jonathan Holmes, a retired USAF Chief and EOD technician, now serving as the Aerospace Museum Specialist, Curator, and Media Developer at the Air Force Armament Museum at Eglin AFB. Jonathan shares his expertise on preserving and accurately capturing history while balancing sensitivity and inclusivity. A balancing act of masterful discussion and presentation. Jonathan and Josh explore the challenges and opportunities in honoring and preserving African American military history, particularly the contributions of veterans who helped pave the way for Eglin AFB today. They emphasize the transformative power of passionate storytelling and the importance of genuine enthusiasm, empathy, and mutual understanding in overcoming challenges and making a positive impact. In Johnathans words: “Honoring those who paved the way before us fills me with deep gratitude and reverence. Their sacrifices and contributions echo through time, reminding us of the legacy we inherit. Capturing stories that would have otherwise been forgotten feels like reclaiming lost treasures; each narrative is a thread in the tapestry of history, and preserving them is a solemn duty. It's a profound sense of responsibility and pride, recognizing the shoulders upon which we stand. These stories are not just words on a page; they are the essence of bravery, resilience, and humanity. To honor them is to ensure they continue to inspire future generations, forging a connection that bridges the past with the present. As we delve into these stories, we find common threads of perseverance and sacrifice that resonate across time and space, a humbling reminder of the enduring legacy of those who came before us.” Summary of Topics Discussed: 0:00 - Roles at the Air Force Armament Museum and media development strategies. 4:11 - Advice for young African Americans joining the military, emphasizing foundation, deployability, and lifestyle acceptance. 8:54 - Personal military service journey, health challenges, and transition to civilian life. 14:45 - Reflections on past experiences, honoring predecessors, and personal background. 20:50 - Discussion on the Air Force's history, culture, and leadership roles. 26:02 - Importance of recognizing marginalized groups' contributions and preserving history. 30:57 - Buried history of the Eglin 17 atrocity and race relations. 37:28 - Efforts to increase representation of African American history at the museum. 44:06 - Creation of a nonprofit for a museum dedicated to African American military history and design of new historical structures. 51:13 - Passion for media development, leadership, and personal stories of resilience. Join us for an inspiring conversation that underscores the importance of accurately preserving history and honoring those who have contributed to our military heritage.