Harlem Hellfighters: Valor and Recognition in History

By Darius Spearman (africanelements)

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A Long Overdue Honor

The 369th Infantry Regiment, famously known as the "Harlem Hellfighters," recently received the Congressional Gold Medal, a posthumous honor for their extraordinary valor and dedicated service during World War I (afro.com). This significant award ceremony took place in the U.S. Capitol on September 3, 2024, bringing a long-awaited recognition to these brave soldiers (afro.com). The Congressional Gold Medal stands as the highest civilian award granted by the U.S. Congress, celebrating individuals who have profoundly and lastingly influenced American history and culture (afro.com).

Key Dates in Harlem Hellfighters' Recognition

2019

Congressman Tom Suozzi learns about Sgt. Leander Willet's story.

August 25, 2021

Harlem Hellfighters Congressional Gold Medal Act signed into law by President Joe Biden.

September 3, 2024

Congressional Gold Medal awarded to descendants of the Harlem Hellfighters.

Timeline of key events in the Harlem Hellfighters' recognition. Source: afro.com, news.va.gov

The journey to this recognition began when the Harlem Hellfighters Congressional Gold Medal Act was signed into law by President Joe Biden on August 25, 2021 (news.va.gov). This act paved the way for the formal acknowledgment of their immense contributions. Legislators universally agreed that this honor was long overdue, underscoring the historical significance of their service (afro.com). Congressman Tom Suozzi, who introduced the act in 2021, was inspired by the story of Sgt. Leander Willet, a Hellfighter who never received a Purple Heart despite his injuries (afro.com). This medal is seen as a crucial step toward justice, finally telling the story of Black men who fought for democracy abroad while facing systemic denial of it at home (afro.com).

The Harlem Hellfighters' Legacy

The 369th Infantry Regiment, also known as the Harlem Hellfighters, holds a pivotal place in American military history (spotterup.com). This unit was originally formed as the 15th New York National Guard Regiment and later reorganized as the 369th upon its federalization (spotterup.com). While primarily composed of African Americans, the regiment also included individuals from diverse backgrounds, including Puerto Rico, Cuba, Guyana, Liberia, Portugal, Canada, and the West Indies, alongside white American officers (spotterup.com). Their distinctive nickname, "Harlem Hellfighters," was bestowed upon them by the Germans, a testament to their fierce fighting spirit (thecollector.com).

The Harlem Hellfighters' service profoundly influenced military policy and civil rights (news.va.gov). Their bravery and capabilities challenged prevailing racial prejudices, demonstrating the immense potential of African American soldiers (news.va.gov). Their actions were instrumental in paving the way for the eventual desegregation of the U.S. military and served as an inspiration for future generations of African American soldiers and civil rights activists (news.va.gov). The regiment's fearlessness and achievements during the war had a significant impact on American history and culture, solidifying their place as pioneers of change and defenders of liberty (news.va.gov). In World War II, the Hellfighters were reorganized as Anti-Aircraft Artillery under the command of then-Colonel Benjamin Davis, who would become the first Black U.S. Army general in 1940 (nationalguard.mil).

Facing Discrimination with Valor

Despite their unwavering commitment and valiant service, the Harlem Hellfighters encountered significant discrimination (manhattantimesnews.com). They fought and sacrificed their lives for a nation that segregated them, enduring prejudice from fellow soldiers and facing racism upon their return home (manhattantimesnews.com). The unit wore the uniform of a country that enforced segregation, yet they fought with unmatched valor and unshakeable courage (afro.com).

Combat Days Comparison

191
Harlem Hellfighters

Other Units
Typical Combat Days

The Harlem Hellfighters spent 191 days in continuous combat, more than any other American unit of its size. Source: afro.com

During World War I, the U.S. military was deeply segregated, leading to widespread discrimination against African American soldiers (news.va.gov). Despite their eagerness to serve, Black soldiers often faced prejudice and were relegated to non-combat roles or units that were not fully integrated into the American Expeditionary Forces (news.va.gov). The Harlem Hellfighters, for instance, were ultimately assigned to fight under French command due to the pervasive racial biases within the American military (afro.com). The inequalities experienced by these brave men are still being addressed today (abmc.gov).

Exceptional Combat Record

The 369th Infantry Regiment's combat record was truly exceptional (afro.com). This segregated African-American unit spent an astonishing 191 days in combat, defending the trenches on the front lines without yielding any ground (afro.com). They displayed American values of courage, dedication, and sacrifice throughout their service (manhattantimesnews.com). The unit ultimately spent more time in continuous combat than any other American unit of its size, enduring the most casualties, totaling over 1,400 (afro.com).

The Harlem Hellfighters were assigned to fight under French command because American forces were unwilling to integrate them due to racial segregation (afro.com). This arrangement meant the unit served alongside French soldiers, who, having served with French Colonial African troops, treated the American Hellfighters with more respect and equality (thecollector.com). The French Army immediately sent the unit into the trenches and combat (thecollector.com). The Hellfighters served an unprecedented 191 continual days in the trenches under French command, a testament to their enduring commitment (thecollector.com). Members of the unit earned numerous accolades, including the Croix de Guerre, the Medal of Honor, and the Distinguished Service Cross (thecollector.com). Notably, Henry Johnson, a Harlem Hellfighter, posthumously received the Medal of Honor, America's highest military award (thecollector.com). Legislation passed by Congress in 2014 paved the way for Private Henry Johnson to receive this honor (abmc.gov).

The Impact of Their Service

The Harlem Hellfighters' service had a profound impact on American history and culture (news.va.gov). Their bravery challenged the prevailing racial prejudices of the time, demonstrating the capabilities of African American soldiers and paving the way for future generations (news.va.gov). Their actions contributed significantly to the eventual desegregation of the U.S. military, a crucial step in the broader civil rights movement (news.va.gov).

The Congressional Gold Medal, the highest civilian award bestowed by the U.S. Congress, recognizes distinguished achievements and contributions to American history and culture (news.va.gov). The regiment's fearlessness and achievements during the war made them truly worthy recipients of this esteemed award (news.va.gov). The Purple Heart, a U.S. military decoration, is awarded to service members wounded or killed in action, signifying sacrifice and injury sustained in combat. The mention of Sgt. Leander Willet's lack of a Purple Heart highlights a potential oversight or injustice in the recognition of his service and injuries, especially given the unit's extensive combat record.

A Legacy Honored by Descendants

The Congressional Gold Medal was awarded to descendants of the Harlem Hellfighters during the ceremony, a poignant moment of historical rectification (afro.com). Debra Willet, granddaughter of Sgt. Leander Willet, expressed profound gratitude for her grandfather's recognition (afro.com). She stated that their sacrifices proved they made a significant difference, a sentiment echoed by many who witnessed the long-overdue honor (afro.com).

Casualties Suffered by Harlem Hellfighters

1,400+
Casualties

Harlem Hellfighters Casualties

Other Casualties

The Harlem Hellfighters suffered over 1,400 casualties, the most of any American unit of its size. Source: afro.com

The recognition of the Harlem Hellfighters is a powerful reminder of the sacrifices made by African American soldiers who fought for freedom abroad while battling injustice at home (afro.com). Their story is a vital part of American history, showcasing resilience, courage, and an unwavering commitment to liberty despite systemic oppression. This honor ensures that their legacy will continue to inspire future generations, reminding us of the importance of acknowledging all who have contributed to the nation's defense and progress.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Darius Spearman has been a professor of Black Studies at San Diego City College since 2007. He is the author of several books, including Between The Color Lines: A History of African Americans on the California Frontier Through 1890. You can visit Darius online at africanelements.org.