Celebrating a Legacy of Courage

African American History Month

As we celebrate the extraordinary contributions and achievements of Black Americans this month, we should take time to explore, study and celebrate the integral role African Americans have played in the U.S. Armed Forces and our national security.

Salem Poor, born enslaved, was recognized by all regimental leaders for his heroism during the Battle of Bunker Hill, and fought until the end of the American Revolution.

African American contribution towards developing this country is indelible. Furthermore, they have courageously served our nation and played a key role in the success of our military. There has been no war fought by or within the United States in which African Americans did not serve proudly. ?They continue to serve with great honor and distinction, ready to defend their country.??

Master Diver Carl “Maxie” Brashear was the first African American master diver in the U.S. Navy, and the first U.S. Navy certified amputee diver.

African Americans have given their hearts, their sweat, their blood, and their lives to defend the United States and its highest ideals, even while their own country denied them their basic rights as citizens. They are members of the legendary Buffalo Soldiers, the Harlem Hell Fighters, the Tuskegee Airmen, the 555th Parachute Infantry Battalion, the Marines of Montford Point, the Red Ball Express and the 6888th Postal Battalion which was commanded by the first black female to serve as an officer in the Women’s Army Auxiliary Corps – Charity Adams Earley. They have built a legacy of courage and professionalism with 90 Medal of Honor recipients. (Robert Augustus Sweeney was awarded two Medals of Honor.)

Dorie Miller, an African American mess steward in a segregated Navy, never received weaponry training, but was awarded the Navy Cross for shooting down Japanese planes during the attack on Pearl Harbor.

Despite their remarkable contributions, it wasn’t until after World War II that the U.S. military was desegregated. In 1948, President Harry S Truman issued an Executive Order abolishing discrimination “on the basis of race, color, religion or national origin.” Executive Order 9981 preceded the Civil Rights Act by more than a decade and was a groundbreaker – recognizing exemplary performance of African Americans during World War II.

African American women have played a role in every war effort in United States history, despite racial and gender discrimination.

U.S. military legacy is rich with African American influence. Their contributions to this country are significant and influential. They eagerly served their country when called to arms, often demanding the opportunity to fight and prove their patriotism despite confronting overwhelming adversity.

The Army’s first African American general is Benjamin O. Davis Sr. His son, Benjamin O. Davis Jr, the first commander of the Tuskegee Airmen, is the Air Force’s first African American general.?

Koch VETS recognize the rich heritage of the African American men and women who devoted their lives in service to our country. ?We appreciate their service and heroism in defense of our nation. We thank them for their resilience to simultaneously overcome many undue hardships while in uniform and at home. We honor them for their sacrifices and contributions that they and their families have made to our great nation.

“I often see people proclaim their patriotism on their sleeve. I believe it thrives best when nurtured in their hearts and minds.” – Clarence E. Sasser, U.S. Army, Medal of Honor

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