The crucial yet often overlooked stories of Black and Caribbean paratroopers who played significant roles in World War II battles, including D-Day and Arnhem, have been revealed thanks to a military heritage initiative from the South Kesteven District Council. Termed ‘Soldiers from the Sky’, the project spotlights the contributions of paratroopers who trained and embarked on their missions from airfields in Lincolnshire during the conflict.
One hero featured in the project, Sgt Sidney Cornell, was the son of African American circus performer Charles Cornell. He parachuted into France on D-Day as part of the 7th Parachute Battalion and was awarded the Distinguished Conduct Medal in recognition of his courage. The project is also retelling the stories of soldiers like Private Joseph Dixon and Private Kenneth Roberts, ensuring their exceptional acts of bravery are remembered.
The endeavour is part of Black History Month and receives backing from the National Lottery Heritage Fund. Its goal is to both protect and celebrate the airborne forces legacy of the district.
This report was adapted by The Lincoln Post from original BBC reporting.
