Discovery Princess Capt. John Smith and Princess Cruises President John Padgett greet retired Lt. Col. James H. Harvey III, a former Tuskegee airman, as he boarded the cruise ship on Sunday, May 21, 2023 in Seattle, to celebrate his upcoming 100th birthday. (Stephen Brashear/AP Images for Princess Cruises)
Advertisement
In a heartwarming celebration of bravery and service, Princess Cruises proudly hosted a special guest onboard the magnificent Discovery Princess as it set sail from Seattle. Lieutenant Colonel James H. Harvey III, a revered member of the renowned Tuskegee Airmen, embarked on this exceptional voyage to Alaska, marking an early commemoration of his 100th birthday.
Having broken down racial barriers as a distinguished African American pilot during World War II, Lt. Col. Harvey was warmly greeted by the esteemed McChord Field Honor Guard, who paid tribute to his extraordinary achievements with a traditional presentation of colors.
on Sunday, May 21, 2023 in Seattle. (Stephen Brashear/AP Images for Princess Cruises)on Sunday, May 21, 2023 in Seattle. (Stephen Brashear/AP Images for Princess Cruises)on Sunday, May 21, 2023 in Seattle. (Stephen Brashear/AP Images for Princess Cruises)on Sunday, May 21, 2023 in Seattle. (Stephen Brashear/AP Images for Princess Cruises)Retired Lt. Col. James H. Harvey III, a former Tuskegee airman,
on Sunday, May 21, 2023 in Seattle. (Stephen Brashear/AP Images for Princess Cruises)
Adding to the joyous occasion, the crew of the Discovery Princess surprised Lt. Col. Harvey with a birthday cake, while the entire ship’s company united in heartfelt well-wishes for his special day. It was a truly unforgettable moment that honored a true hero.
Jamie Jackson is an Emmy-nominated television and radio broadcaster who has served American Urban Radio Networks since 2015. He previously covered the Obama and Trump administrations as a White House Correspondent and Pool Reporter for AURN News. Jamie hosted a national PBS television special in 2023 and over the years has worked as a TV news anchor and local NPR host for stations across the country. His work has been honored by numerous organizations, including the NAACP and the Virginia Farm Bureau.