African American Museum of History and Culture Unveils Uniform From Normandy

Gastonia, NC (WNN) - Loray Mills hosts one of Gaston County's cultural gems. The museum, located within it, is dedicated to local stories that might otherwise have gone unheard. One such story is that of Lorenzo Friday, a Gaston County Native who served his country during World War II. His uniform now sits among other heroes from our community waiting to share their stories.

Lorenzo Friday

Friday’s uniform sits among many like it, with representation from most branches. Each uniform tells a story about the person who wore it, with two of them sharing a story. Chief Petty Officer Tony Littlejohn grew up looking up to Friday and being close friends with his son. Littlejohn knew Friday as a talented and humble individual. He was known for his ability to do just about anything you could ask, assisting the community with his knack for mechanics, cooking, and tailoring. 

Littlejohn lowered his voice and said, “If he was here, he wouldn’t let me do this,” remembering the man who was like a second father to him. When Littlejohn asked about his service, he was told: “I was in the army, and they put us on the ship, took us overseas.” What Friday didn’t mention is that he served in WWII as a member of the 8131 Quartermaster Unit. During his time in the European Theater, he provided critical support to the Red Ball Express, ensuring that the necessary supplies reached Allied Troops. He operated alongside his fellow Quartermasters, supporting General George S. Patton’s Third United States Army. 

Celebrating Service

The exhibit has traveled from the Stars and Stripes Museum in Missouri to its hometown through November 30, 2026. Museum Co-Founder Dot Guthrie feels it is especially important to showcase Gaston County's patriotism as we celebrate America’s 250th. She hopes that these exhibits in the museum will help children see the people around them who helped build America. 

During the ceremony Micheal Meeks Sr., the Chairman of the Gaston County Veterans Council, spoke on a classmate, Roy Neil Burris, who lost his life in Vietnam while assigned to M Company, Third Battalion, First Marine Hard Fighting Unit. On February 27, 1968, Burris was killed by hostile artillery. Lance Corporal Burris lost his life amongst his brothers, and Meeks honored him as one who gave it all. 

Littlejohn then spoke on Friday, remembering how proud he was of Littlejohn the day he came home from boot camp. As he honored Friday, it was easy to see the influences that led Littlejohn to the Navy. He was influenced by the people in his life, but wanted to do something slightly different. With no other family members having entered the Navy, Littlejohn found himself traveling the world to serve his country. Now back home, he happily speaks on one of the “Greatest of a great generation”, Lorenzo Friday.

The African American Museum Of History And Culture Exhibits

The museum where this all occurred digs into local history and shows that Gaston County is a place where greatness arises. These local icons are not restricted to those who served; sections are devoted to all walks of life, with the museum growing and shifting as it acquires more stories.

The sports section holds its own recent addition, donated by Ashebrook High School. It now holds the autographed tennis shoe of Los Angeles Lakers player James Worthy. The shoe found its way to the high school because Worthy attended there. It now rests among the relics of many of its peers. Music, art, history, and culture are all highlighted around the museum. It hosts areas and programs for children so they can interact with them while you reflect on examples you may not have realized your community provides. 

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