MyVA Dayton

Welcome to another compelling episode of My VA Dayton. We are here to guide you through a tapestry of remarkable stories in celebration of Black History Month. Today, we bring to light the extraordinary contributions of black American veterans to our military and their influential impact on the arts.

Join us as we dive into the life of Emmett North, Jr., a U.S. Army veteran whose love for music led him to share stages with icons like Chuck Berry and Barry White. We'll follow Emmett's journey from The Ohio Twisters to the prestigious halls of King Records and beyond, showcasing the rhythm of resilience that pulses through his career.

Hollis Melson's incredible transition from army life to bass lines will also strike a chord, as we recount his memorable gigs with Sun, the Apollo, and the sounds of Motown that shifted his musical destiny. From draft-day surprises to the dexterity of his bass guitar, his story is one of harmony and heroism.

Then, brace yourselves for an intimate portrayal of the acting world as we sit down with our next guest, Alan Bomar Jones, a US Navy veteran and actor. We'll explore Alan's transformative journey from a troubled past to a promising future under the spotlight, and the challenges faced by older actors learning their craft.

Throughout the episode, we'll shed light on the visual dilemmas of casting, the unyielding demand for character actors, and the vital role of memory in performance. Moreover, we'll reflect on the exceptional healthcare support provided by the VA, as our guests share their life-altering experiences with VA hospitals, emphasizing how this care has been a lifeline.

So stay tuned, lend us your ears, and prepare for a symphony of stories that honor the legacy and creativity of our black American veterans, right here on My VA Dayton.