During World War I the 369th Infantry Regiment, was an Black American military unit known as the Harlem Hell Fighters. Established in 1913 as a National Guard unit based in New York City, the regiment was one of the few Black American units to serve in combat during the war due to racial segregation in the U.S. military.
Led by Colonel William Hayward, the Harlem Hellfighters were deployed to France in 1918 and served under French command as they were not allowed to fight alongside white American troops. Despite facing discrimination from their own countrymen, the Hellfighters displayed exceptional bravery and combat prowess on the front lines.
Their valor earned them numerous accolades, including the French Croix de Guerre for their valiance in battle.
Despite their heroism and sacrifice, the Harlem Hellfighters returned home to face continued racial discrimination and segregation. However, their service paved the way for future Black American military units and played a significant role in the ongoing struggle for civil rights in the United States.
The Joy Trip Project celebrates the enduring legacy of Black American History. The Unhidden Minute is part of the Unhidden Podcast Project supported through a National Geographic Explorer Grant from the National Geographic Society, with the cooperation of the National Park Service. This series elevates the untold stories of Black American historical figures, events and cultural contributions.
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The Harlem Hellfighters