* The Harlem Hell fighters were different: they were the most celebrated Black regiment in World War I and were awarded France’s highest military honor at the end of the war.
* This division had nearly 70 Black soldiers from TX. When these soldiers first arrived in France, all they did was unload cargo (white officers did not want to fight with them in their units.)
* But then the Hell fighters were turned over and reassigned to the thirty-three. _____________Army and they demonstrated bravery when they defeated many German soldiers in France.
* The Harlem Hellfighters were part of the 369th Infantry Regiment.
* They were known for their courage and tenacity on the battlefield, often holding the front lines for extended periods of time.
* The Hellfighters never lost a foot of ground or a man to capture.
* They spent a total of 191 days in combat, the longest of any American unit in World War I.
* The regiment was recognized for their bravery and valor by both the American and French military.
* They received numerous individual honors, including the Croix de Guerre, France's highest military award.
* The Hellfighters also received a unit citation from the French government, becoming the first American unit to be awarded such an honor.
* Their significant contributions to the war efforts challenged the prevailing racial prejudices and paved the way for future advancements for Black soldiers in the U.S. military.