National Geographic continues its legacy of illuminating pivotal historical moments with depth and insight, as it prepares to debut two groundbreaking specials on Monday, June 3. "ERASED: WW2’S HEROES OF COLOR," a four-part docuseries executive produced and narrated by Idris Elba ("Hijack"), and "THE REAL RED TAILS," a one-hour documentary narrated by Sheryl Lee Ralph ("Abbott Elementary"), will offer viewers a poignant glimpse into the often-overlooked contributions of Allied soldiers of color during World War II.

"ERASED: WW2’S HEROES OF COLOR," produced by October Films and Elba's 22Summers, is set to uncover the long-lost legacies of soldiers of color who served heroically in WW2. Through a captivating blend of historical dramatizations and curated archival footage, the series aims to shed light on the remarkable contributions of over eight million individuals whose stories have remained largely untold.

Each episode of the four-part series will delve into the personal narratives of these unsung heroes, featuring never-before-aired oral testimonies and journal writings. Viewers will be transported back in time to witness the bravery and resilience displayed by soldiers of color across WW2's iconic theatres of war. From a 16-year-old New Yorker to an aristocrat from India, each episode will showcase the diverse and remarkable experiences of these extraordinary individuals.

"THE REAL RED TAILS" offers a unique perspective on an 80-year-old mystery involving a Tuskegee Airman. Narrated by Sheryl Lee Ralph, this one-hour special promises to unravel the intricacies of this historical enigma, providing viewers with new insights into the heroic deeds of these trailblazing aviators.

Both specials will premiere on National Geographic on June 3, with streaming available the next day on Disney+ and Hulu. As National Geographic continues its tradition of honoring the past and celebrating diversity, audiences can look forward to a thought-provoking exploration of the invaluable contributions made by soldiers of color during one of the most tumultuous periods in history. Join us as we pay tribute to these unsung heroes and ensure that their legacies are not forgotten. 

Each episode focuses on at least three extraordinary heroes, from a 16-year-old New Yorker to an aristocrat from India:

“PEARL HARBOR”
Premieres June 3 at 9/8c on Nat Geo, Streams June 4 on Disney+ and Hulu
This episode tells the story of three Black sailors who not only miraculously survived the attack on Pearl Harbor but also saved countless lives. Working as messmen below deck on segregated ships, hundreds of Black sailors fought for their lives as Japanese bombs hit, with some performing incredible acts of heroism. It took years before many of these men were properly honored after their return.

“D-DAY”
Premieres June 3 at 10/9c on Nat Geo, Streams June 4 on Disney+ and Hulu
In this episode, we unearth the hidden heroes of the 320th Barrage Balloon Battalion who helped liberate Europe. These American soldiers were the only all-Black combat unit to fight on the D-Day beaches. After valiantly serving their country, they returned home, hoping for the Civil Rights Movement to secure change, only to find a country where their heroics in France were quickly forgotten.

“DUNKIRK”
Premieres June 10 at 9/8c on Nat Geo, Streams June 4 on Disney+ and Hulu
This episode reveals the gripping story of Force K6, a little-known Indian regiment of mule handlers in WW2, with one unit destined to be pivotal in evacuating Allied forces at Dunkirk. Other units who were stranded or captured in Nazi-occupied France had to find ways to escape to safety. Later, their wartime experiences fed the fight to end nearly 200 years of colonial rule in India.

“BATTLE OF THE BULGE”
Premieres June 10 at 10/9c on Nat Geo Streams June 4 on Disney+ and Hulu
This episode explores the untold story of the Black Panthers, an elite African American tank battalion. Unseen diaries and rare interviews chart the unit’s action through France, Belgium and Germany, including in the bloodiest American battle of WW2: the Battle of the Bulge. Their experiences inspired not just the fight for civil rights in the U.S. but also battles for freedom worldwide.

For more info, visit natgeotv.com or nationalgeographic.com