Shining a Light on Black Veterans During Black History Month

We honor Black Americans during Black History Month for everything they have done to shape the world we live in. From inventors and entrepreneurs to world leaders, there are many stories to tell that enlighten us to communities beyond our own. One community that so rightly deserves the spotlight are Black veterans who have protected and upheld the freedom of our country for generations. At SSi People, we are passionate about supporting our veterans, and find it equally important to uplift underrepresented groups across the veteran community as well.?

Here, we share information on just five notable groups and individuals who changed the trajectory of the armed forces. Join us in celebrating Black veterans and spreading awareness of these heroes.?

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• Montford Point Marines?signified the first African Americans who entered the United States Marine Corps from the period of 1942 to 1949. ABC News in Detroit outlines their story through the Montford Point Detachment. Plus, you can learn more about the National Montford Point Marine Association is a Veterans Service Organization dedicated to their legacy and forging paths for veterans and their families.
• Learn the story of the?Buffalo Soldiers, which started as all-Black peacetime regiments, that later formed the 9th and 10th Cavalry, and the 24th and 25th Infantry. Their story is remarkable as they were the guardians of the U.S.’s push West. Their service laid the foundation for Henry O. Flipper’s legacy, when he was assigned to the 10th Cavalry Regiment.?
• Henry O. Flipper?was the first African American to graduate from the United States Military Academy at West Point. A former slave, as a military person who trained amidst a harsh and unfair environment, Second Lieutenant Flipper is still celebrated today on the West Point campus by honoring students who have faced and overcome incredible obstacles to reach their goals.?In fact, this year’s annual dinner was just held to present the Flipper Award to a West Point Cadet. You can read more about this extraordinary award and event here: https://www.facebook.com/share/p/1B8Y5M3wSD/
• The first African American female General,?Hazel Johnson-Brown?also became the first Black Chief of U.S. Army Nurse Corps. A native of Pennsylvania, Brig. Gen Hazel Johnson-Brown, dedicated her life to care, medicine and creating opportunities for equity in the military.
• Vernice Armour?was born into a military family as her grandfather was one of the first African Americans to serve in an integrated troop during WWII times. She went on to be the first African American female naval aviator and combat pilot, later becoming the first female African American police officer in Tempe, Arizona.?

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This is but a small glimpse into the inspiring stories of Black veterans from the United States. To continue reading, Kutztown University compiled many more profiles of Black Veterans Throughout History.