Richard Etheridge: The Hero of the Pea Island Life Saving Station
Richard Etheridge, far left, and the Pea Island Life-Saving crew in front of their station, circa 1890. U.S. Coast Guard photo Every year around black history month we talk about the great "firsts." Those who broke through racial barriers to become the first African-Americans to do something. In every case there was a lot of pain and heartache leading up to success. In this next story, The "first" accomplishment only scratches the surface of what this man was able to do in his life. Pea Island Station - Library of Congress Richard Etheridge was the first African American "Keeper" or Commander of a Life Saving station. He was also commander of the first all-black Coast Guard crew. He was promoted from the lowest to the highest position. His all-white crew quit... so Etheridge recruited an all African American crew from nearby stations. His stati...