Invisible Generals: Rediscovering Family Legacy, and a Quest to Honor America’s First Black Generals

Summary

The amazing true story of America’s first Black generals, Benjamin O. Davis, Sr. and Jr., a father and son who helped integrate the American military and created the Tuskegee Airmen.

When author Doug Melville set out to rediscover his family’s story—one of sacrifice and perseverance—a valuable lesson revealed itself as he sifted through five generations of artifacts: sometimes, you have to be invisible to make history.

Invisible Generals shares Melville’s incredible trip across three centuries, a journey from post-Civil War America to modern-day Europe. He uncovers the lives of two great men who sacrificed much for the country they always believed in, regardless of the hardships they endured. These trailblazers never received the recognition and fame they deserved in their lifetimes because they humbly prioritized service over self.

You’re invited to join Melville’s adventure as he brings these hidden stories into the light, fully honoring his family’s legacy and setting forth valuable examples you can follow as you draw strength from your own reclaimed history:

- Utilize your ancestors’ victories to broaden your vision of what’s possible today.
- Become a voice for the voiceless, advocating for those who have been silenced.
- Harness the power of perseverance to understand and overcome generational challenges and change the course of your family’s story.
- Build on and grow your family legacy, treating it like the high-value brand it is.

Our stories are America’s story, full of everyday heroes who worked behind the scenes to give their families, communities, and nation a better future—and the world needs to be inspired by them.