History of African American Soldiers in WWII

Background

• Initially faced with widespread prejudice and segregation.
• Role relegation to support duties despite capabilities.
• Increased need for soldiers during WWII led to more combat roles for black servicemen.

Creation of the 92nd Infantry Division (Buffalo Soldiers)

• Named after post-Civil War black units.
• Reactivated October 15, 1942, post Pearl Harbor attack.
• Comprised three infantry divisions: 365th, 370th, and 371st.

Army's Systemic Racism

• Predominantly Southern white senior officers placed in command.
• Disinterest in allowing black officers to command white soldiers.
• Leadership issues and institutionalized racism from top-down.
  • General Ned Almond's racist tendencies.
  • Deliberate non-promotion of black officers.

Training and Deployment

• Trained in isolated areas to avoid social tension.
• Initial lack of congressional support for black divisions training in the U.S.
• Units formed at various camps: Camp Atterbury, Camp Breckenridge, Camp Robertson, Fort McFarland.
• Final deployment at Fort Huachuca, Arizona.

Challenges in Italy

• Diverse Allied units leading to operational challenges.
• Difficult terrain and harsh weather conditions hindering mobility.
• Continued racial discrimination and inadequate resources (e.g., second-hand supplies).
• Communication and trust issues within officer ranks.
• Poor planning leading to high casualties and ineffective attacks.
• Straggling problems indicating morale issues.
• Discriminatory award distribution.

Key Battles and Operations

• First action: 370th Infantry entered the Arno River line, August 1944.
• Battle for Massa: Vital due to proximity to German naval base at La Spezia.
• Noteworthy operations in February and April 1945 leading to capturing Massa.
• April 5th, 370th reached castle at Aganolfi and advanced swiftly.
• Integrated efforts with Japanese-American 442nd Regimental Combat Team.
• Crossing Chinqually Canal and final push in April 1945.

Heroism and Discrimination

• Lt. John Fox's heroic self-sacrifice leading to posthumous Medal of Honor (initially denied).
• Lt. Vernon Baker’s valor and eventual recognition with Medal of Honor in 1997.

Post-War Irony and Impact

• Treatment disparity: War heroes returning to segregation and inequality stateside.
• Black soldiers faced worse treatment compared to even German POWs in some instances.
• Limited benefits from GI Bill, job discrimination, and continued racial bias.
• Contributions of the 92nd to future civil rights advancements and integration in the military.
• Legacy acknowledged by General Colin Powell, emphasizing ethical integration in the military.

Summary

• The 92nd Infantry Division faced extensive systemic racism but demonstrated remarkable resilience and capability.
• Despite significant adversity, their actions paved the way for future integration and recognition within the armed forces.