4 Moments of Bravery in African American Military History - WW1 to Operation Iraqi Freedom

The Marion VA has always stood by every U.S. military personnel, irrespective of their race, throughout its history. As we celebrate Black History Month and pay tribute to the courageous Black men and women who have served our nation with exceptional bravery and honor, we want to highlight the extraordinary acts of four service members. Their heroism spans from World War 1 to Operation Iraqi Freedom, demonstrating an unwavering commitment to duty that goes beyond expectations.

Henry Johnson

The 369th Infantry Regiment, also famously referred to as the "Harlem Hellfighters," was a distinguished all-African American unit that served in World War I. This regiment not only experienced more combat than any other U.S. units but also boasted a globally renowned ragtime band. Among its notable members was Private Henry Johnson, further adding to the unit's prestige and historical significance.

Johnson, whom President Theodore Roosevelt described as one of the "five bravest Americans" to serve in the entire war, single-handedly fought off over 20 Germans and rescued a fellow soldier from capture. He accomplished this remarkable feat while injured and armed only with a bolo knife. Johnson's extraordinary bravery earned him the nickname "Black Death" from the German army and the French Croix du Guerre, France's highest military honor. Upon returning home to New York City, Johnson was greeted with a welcoming parade. In 2015, he was posthumously awarded the U. S. Medal of Honor.

Ruben Rivers

During World War II, there were doubts among many U. S. Army leaders about deploying African American soldiers overseas. However, these unfounded fears were swiftly dispelled by the remarkable achievements of the primarily Black 761st Tank Battalion, also known as "Patton's Panthers." Not only did they play a crucial role on the western front, but the unit also gained a reputation for having fierce fighters like Staff Sgt. Ruben Rivers.

Rivers, a native Oklahoman, suffered a severe leg injury after hitting a mine with his tank. Despite a direct order to evacuate, he chose to disobey and put himself in harm's way to provide cover for the U. S. retreat from advancing German lines. Tragically, Rivers lost his life in the battle but was posthumously awarded the Medal of Honor in 1997.

Melvin Morris

During the Vietnam War, Staff Sgt. Melvin Morris demonstrated exceptional bravery and valor by leading an advance across enemy lines to retrieve the body of a fallen sergeant. Despite being shot three times, Morris displayed incredible resilience as he single-handedly destroyed four enemy bunkers using a bag of grenades.

Morris went on to become one of the first Green Berets in 1961. In 2014, at the age of 72, he was presented with the Medal of Honor for his actions in Vietnam.

Alwyn C. Cashe

In 2005, in Iraq, Sgt. 1st Class Alwyn C. Cashe demonstrated exceptional bravery and selflessness. Despite being under enemy fire, he courageously dove back into a burning vehicle not once, but three times, in order to rescue trapped soldiers. Throughout the rescue mission, Cashe's uniform, soaked in fuel, caught on fire, resulting in severe second and third-degree burns. However, he persisted in pulling soldiers from the vehicle and refused to board the medical evacuation helicopter until all other wounded men had been safely flown to safety.

Later in the hospital, when Cashe regained consciousness, his first words were, "How are my boys?" He passed away three weeks later and was posthumously awarded the Silver Star.

After years of effort to have his actions recognized, Cashe was posthumously awarded the Medal of Honor in December 2021. His family accepted the award on his behalf. It is worth noting that he is the first Black recipient of the medal since 9/11.

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The history of African Americans in the military is filled with remarkable moments of bravery and sacrifice. From World War I to Operation Iraqi Freedom, African American servicemen and women have consistently displayed courage, resilience, and determination in the face of adversity.

These four moments highlighted in this article are just a glimpse into the countless acts of heroism that have been carried out by African American military personnel throughout history. Their contributions, often overlooked or underrepresented, deserve recognition and appreciation.

As we reflect on the bravery of these remarkable individuals, let us remember that their stories are not only a testament to their personal strength, but also to the collective strength of the African American community. Their heroism serves as a powerful reminder that courage knows no bounds and that the fight for equality and justice is an ongoing battle that requires the contributions of all.