Honoring African American Veterans: A Legacy of Valor and Sacrifice

The Roots of Veterans Day

On November 11, 2025, Americans will pause to honor the courageous men and women who defended our nation. The observance traces its origins back to November 11, 1918, when an armistice between the Allied forces and Germany marked the end of World War I. In 1919, President Woodrow Wilson declared it Armistice Day to commemorate this historic day. The day became a national holiday in 1938, and in 1954, following World War II, it was renamed Veterans Day to honor all who have served in the U.S. armed forces.

The Overlooked Contributions

Despite the celebrations, it is crucial to acknowledge the significant contributions of African Americans in the military. Their sacrifices often go underrecognized, overshadowed by the systemic racism and segregation that have historically plagued the armed forces and wider society.

A Hall of Fame of courage

Consider the profound legacy of African American veterans:

• Crispus Attucks: The first American casualty of the Revolutionary War, he symbolizes the struggle for freedom from the very beginning of our nation’s history.

• Nurse Susie King Taylor: In a time when education was illegal for African Americans, Taylor went above and beyond to teach her people while serving during the Civil War. She worked with Clara Barton, the founder of the Red Cross, demonstrating not only bravery in battle but also an unwavering commitment to service.

• The Buffalo Soldiers: This group of African American soldiers fought valiantly in both the Civil War and the Indian Wars, earning the nickname “Buffalo Soldiers” from Native Americans due to their fierce spirit and bravery.

• Corporal Freddie Stowers: Leading the all-Black 371st Infantry Regiment in combat in World War I, he showcased exceptional courage, earning a posthumous Medal of Honor 70 years after his service.

The Impact of Personal Stories

The narrative of African American veterans is also painted with personal tragedies and triumphs. Veterans like John T. Van Rensalier, awarded the French Legion of Honor in WWI, and Doris “Dorie” Miller, the first African American Navy Cross recipient for actions at Pearl Harbor, remind us of the heroism displayed by these brave souls amidst rampant discrimination.

Trailblazers and Innovators

African American women like Colonel Margaret Barley fought not just on the frontlines but also for civil rights within the military. Barley advocated for integrated military housing at a time when segregation prevailed in both the military and civilian life.

In the air, the Tuskegee Airmen made history as the first African American pilots in the U.S. military. Known for their exceptional skill and courage, they never lost a plane they were escorting, paving the way for over a million African Americans to enter the armed services during and following World War II.

A Legacy of Disenfranchisement

The cruel irony is that many African American veterans returned home to face discrimination, disenfranchisement, and violence. They fought bravely to secure freedom and rights for others, only to be denied the same upon their return. Historical accounts reveal harrowing stories, such as Charles Lewis, who was lynched while in uniform, and Joe Nathan Roberts, a veteran who faced fatal repercussions for refusing to conform to racial subservience.

Celebrating Heroes

The military has also seen groundbreaking African American leaders, including:

• General Benjamin Oliver Davis, Sr.: The first African American general in the U.S. Army.
• General Colin Powell: The first African American Secretary of State, whose journey from ROTC to four-star general exemplifies the resilience and potential of African Americans in military service.

While 3547 Medals of Honor have been awarded, only 96 have gone to African Americans, showcasing the adversity these soldiers faced both in battle and in recognition.

A Special Veterans Day

This Veterans Day, it is vital to remember and celebrate the unique histories of African American veterans—men and women whose stories of bravery, sacrifice, and resilience deserve recognition. We honor countless individuals who have provided us with freedom, dignity, and a legacy to be proud of.

These heroes have reminded us, “And still we rise.”