BHS Day 4: The Harlem Hellfighters

Hi! Each Monday throughout the month will be reserved for someone in the military, technological or scientific fields who made an impact on our history. We're starting with the M part of our Spotlight today and highlighting an iconic, yet not often discussed, military unit comprised entirely of Black men. This was especially important for the time that these men were able to come together and serve our country, as the military was still segregated and they were not able to serve in regular units. Despite that, they were able to excel and bring honor to the branch they served. Let's get to our entrant!

Source

Name: The Harlem Hellfighters, 1913-1946 Profession: US National Guard 369th Infantry Unit Why is the Spotlight on them today? For their bravery and acts of service despite the racism plaguing Black troops and units Notables:
--Were the official first all-Black military unit and the first Black troops in New York's National Guard --Were awarded the Croix de Guerre for the bravery of two Hellfighters during the first World War for fighting off a German unit even after numerous wounds and running out of ammunition --Introduced the French troops stationed alongside them in Brest, France to jazz music via Harlem's jazz musicians, who joined the Hellfighters as part of their marching band--it is noted as being probably the most recognized introduction to American jazz for the French --Were given a victory parade of their own upon returning home after being denied one prior to their deployment --Spent more time manning the front line than any other American troops
--Were able to parlay their wartime success into a bit of recognition back home by going on a tour that was initially short-lived but gave birth to a song that became a signature of the Harlem Renaissance
--Throughout their tenure, were awarded over 100 medals and honors, making them one of the most decorated American units in World War I
--Were given the name "Hellfighters" by the Germans, who always faced considerable resistance from them during their extensive time out on the line
--Were the first unit to cross into Germany during World War I
--Served in World War II as the 369th Anti-Aircraft Artillery Regiment of the National Guard
--Is still around today, under the 369th Support Battalion of the NY National Guard
--Were successfully able to start the conversation of American hypocrisy because of their service to the country despite still being actively discriminated against
--Received posthumous recognition from then-President Obama, who awarded one of the more notable soldiers involved with a Medal of Honor for his actions during World War I, making him the second Black soldier involved with that war to be honored in such a way

Further reading links: 1 | 2 | 3


Quote of the Day: 
"Don't Tread on Me, God Damn, Let's Go" --Harlem Hellfighters Motto