Battlefield Stories Of The 89 African Americans Awarded The Medal Of Honor

The Medal of Honor is the highest military decoration awarded by the United States government. It is awarded to members of the armed forces who have displayed extraordinary heroism in combat. Over the years, a total of 89 African Americans have been awarded this prestigious honor, each with their own remarkable battlefield story.

1. Sergeant William Carney

Sergeant William Carney was the first African American to be awarded the Medal of Honor. He earned it during the American Civil War for his actions at the Battle of Fort Wagner. Despite being shot multiple times, Carney refused to let go of the American flag he was protecting. His bravery and determination inspired those around him.

2. Corporal Freddie Stowers

Corporal Freddie Stowers served during World War I and was posthumously awarded the Medal of Honor for his actions in France. Despite being mortally wounded, he continued to lead his men and successfully eliminated key enemy positions. His selfless sacrifice and leadership saved many lives.

Brothers in Valor: Battlefield Stories of the 89 African Americans Awarded the Medal of Honor

by Robert F. Jefferson Jr.(Kindle Edition)

4.7 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	5775 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	249 pages

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3. Lieutenant Colonel Charity Adams Earley

Lieutenant Colonel Charity Adams Earley was the first African American woman to be awarded the Medal of Honor. She served as the commanding officer of the 6888th Postal Battalion in World War II. Under her leadership, the battalion ensured that soldiers received their mail and helped boost morale among the troops.

4. Staff Sergeant Edward Carter Jr.

Staff Sergeant Edward Carter Jr. received the Medal of Honor posthumously for his actions during World War II. Despite being wounded, Carter singlehandedly disabled multiple enemy machine gun positions and saved the lives of his comrades. His unwavering bravery ensured the success of his mission.

5. Sergeant First Class Melvin Morris

Sergeant First Class Melvin Morris' heroic actions in Vietnam earned him the Medal of Honor. In the face of intense enemy fire, Morris rescued a wounded comrade and eliminated several enemy fighters. Despite being wounded himself, he continued to fight, inspiring his fellow soldiers.

The Legacy Lives On

These are just a few examples, but the stories of all 89 African Americans who have been awarded the Medal of Honor are equally inspiring and significant. Each of them has shown incredible courage, selflessness, and dedication to their fellow soldiers and the country.

By honoring these individuals, their stories serve as a reminder of the African American contributions to the defense of the United States throughout its history. These heroes have broken barriers, defied stereotypes, and paved the way for future generations.

The valor and heroism displayed by the 89 African Americans awarded the Medal of Honor are a testament to their strength, resilience, and unwavering commitment to duty. Their stories deserve to be celebrated, shared, and never forgotten.

Brothers in Valor: Battlefield Stories of the 89 African Americans Awarded the Medal of Honor

by Robert F. Jefferson Jr.(Kindle Edition)

4.7 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	5775 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	249 pages

FREE

During the Battle of Fort Wagner in 1863, Sgt. William Harvey Carney picked up the fallen flag from his lifeless comrade. He waved the flag for all of the 54^th Massachusetts Volunteer Infantry to see and led the way to the parapet to plant the colors. After Col. Robert Gould Shaw was mortally wounded, Carney inspired his infantry forward. Even after sustaining severe wounds, Carney proudly declared, “Boys, the old flag never touched the ground!” After this battle, Carney became the first African American to receive the Medal of Honor.

Since the American Civil War, scores of African Americans have served with great distinction. Through thousands of historical accounts, photographs, and documentary evidence, Robert Jefferson introduces the 89 black soldiers who continued forward when all odds were against them. The heroes within these pages faced certain death and definite danger without flinching.

Jefferson paints a vivid portrait of African-American soldiers who carried the flag of freedom and how they reshaped the very definition of courage under fire during some of the most harrowing moments in United States military history. In turn, their courage and determination left an indelible mark on the American portrait.