96-year-old Nelson Mitchell's naval career inspired future generations of African-American servicemen - including his son.

FACT CHECK: We strive for accuracy and fairness. But if you see something that doesn't look right, click here to contact us! HISTORY reviews and updates its content regularly to ensure it is complete and accurate.

RELATED CONTENT

On February 10, 1990, South African President F.W. de Klerk announces that after 27 years in prison Nelson Mandela will be released the following day. De Klerk asks for the release to "take place in a dignified and orderly manner."

After being held for 27 years as a political prisoner, the newly freed Nelson Mandela stands before the United Nations on June 22, 1990. As deputy president of the African National Congress, Mandela delivers a speech to the Special Committee Against Apartheid and calls for continued economic sanctions against South Africa to help force an end to segregation.

Remember Pearl Harbor

75 Years Later

Hawaii: Life Before

The War in Japan