The U.S. Air Force is set to launch an expanded search effort at a Florida Air Force base, where 121 potential Black grave sites have already been found. An archaeological survey conducted over the past two years at MacDill Air Force Base in Tampa identified 58 probable graves and 63 possible graves, according to Lt. Laura Anderson. The base plans to extend the search to a northern area of the main cemetery to ensure no one is overlooked. This initiative comes after the Tampa Bay History Center alerted MacDill officials about the possible existence of a Black cemetery in 2019.
The Port Tampa Cemetery, located at the base, had its headstones removed during the construction of the facility in the late 1930s. However, the bodies were never relocated, as the site must remain devoid of vertical structures for aircraft safety purposes. Recognizing the significance of the site, MacDill Air Force Base hosted a memorial service in 2021, unveiling a memorial dedicated to the individuals buried there.
Efforts to document the site and honor the deceased will continue, with officials pledging to work alongside the community. Lt. Anderson emphasized the importance of acknowledging the wrongs of the past and making amends: We know obviously there was wrong done in the past, but we’re working together with our community members. We want to make what was wrong right.
Yvette Lewis, President of the NAACP Hillsborough County branch, praised base officials for their proactive approach in addressing community concerns. However, she stressed the need for additional measures to memorialize the site accurately and ensure its history is properly conveyed.
The expansion of the search reflects the Air Force’s commitment to rectify past injustices and bring closure to families affected by the disturbed cemetery. With the aim of preserving historical dignity, the collaboration between MacDill Air Force Base and the local community is crucial in ensuring that the stories of those buried there are told respectfully and accurately.
