In observance of Black History Month, Military Officer takes time to remember the impact black military members' service has had on the U.S. and its history. Buffalo Soldiers, Harlem Hellfighters, Red Ball Express, Montford Point Marines, Tuskegee Airmen - I'll bet most of us have heard about these units and are familiar with their exploits. They were black military organizations that served nobly in combat. They were unique in their day and helped set the stage for acceptance of Americans of every heritage in the U.S. military. But these well-known units are only the more visible features in a landscape of service by black servicemembers. African-Americans have a history of distinguished military service for more than 232 years. In fact, a black colonist died during the Boston Massacre in 1770, protesting English rule. And an estimated 5,000 African-Americans fought on the patriot side during the American Revolutionary War.
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