Meaning: This quote reflects the disappointment of Gordon Parks, a renowned photographer, at not having the opportunity to accompany the first Negro fighter group overseas during World War II. The quote suggests that Parks was eager to document the experiences and achievements of this group, as he believed there was not enough recognition of their contributions to the war effort. The significance of this quote lies in its portrayal of the desire to shed light on the often overlooked history of African American soldiers and their role in the war.

Gordon Parks was a pioneering African American photographer, known for his powerful images that captured the social and political realities of his time. Born in 1912, Parks faced numerous challenges and discrimination as a black artist in a predominantly white society. Despite these obstacles, he became a prominent figure in the world of photography, using his work to advocate for civil rights and social justice.

The context of this quote is important to understanding its significance. During World War II, African American soldiers faced segregation and discrimination within the military, with limited opportunities for combat roles and advancement. The first Negro fighter group, also known as the Tuskegee Airmen, was a unit of African American pilots who overcame prejudice and skepticism to become one of the most successful fighter groups in the war. Despite their remarkable achievements, their contributions were often overlooked or marginalized in the larger narrative of the war.

Parks' disappointment at not being able to accompany the group overseas reflects his deep commitment to documenting and preserving the history of African American experiences. His desire to capture the exploits of the first Negro fighter group suggests a recognition of the importance of their story in the broader context of American history. Parks likely saw this as an opportunity to challenge the prevailing narrative of the time, which often downplayed or ignored the contributions of African American servicemen.

In the quote, Parks expresses his disappointment at not getting the chance to go overseas with the group, acknowledging that he might not have returned but emphasizing his strong desire to be part of this historical documentation. This sentiment reflects the risks and sacrifices that Parks was willing to make in order to fulfill his mission as a photographer and advocate for social change. It also highlights the personal significance of this opportunity for Parks, as it aligned with his commitment to showcasing the underrepresented stories and experiences of African Americans.

Overall, this quote by Gordon Parks encapsulates his passion for documenting the history and experiences of African Americans, particularly in the context of the first Negro fighter group during World War II. It underscores the importance of recognizing and preserving the contributions of marginalized groups in shaping the broader narrative of history. Parks' disappointment at not being able to accompany the group overseas serves as a reminder of the ongoing efforts to uncover and celebrate the often overlooked stories of African American resilience, courage, and triumph in the face of adversity.