Historical Image Gallery

Browse through images showcasing the contributions of Black American soldiers during WWII.

Historical image showing A shell is being loaded into an 8-inch howitzer. of Black American soldiers during WWII

A shell is being loaded into an 8-inch howitzer.

A shell is being loaded into an 8-inch gun of Battery C, 578th Field Artillery Battalion near Bleialf, Germany.

Source: Author collection

Date: 9 February 1945

Historical image showing The 614th Tank Destroyer Battalion of Black American soldiers during WWII

The 614th Tank Destroyer Battalion

A three-inch M5 gun with the crew of the 614th Tank Destroyer Battalion.

Source: United States Army Heritage and Education Center.

Date: 1945

Historical image showing The 614th Tank Destroyer Battalion of Black American soldiers during WWII

The 614th Tank Destroyer Battalion

An officer and two enlisted men of the 614th Tank Destroyer Battalion.

Source: United States Army Heritage and Education Center.

Date: 1945

Historical image showing A soldier of the 614th Tank Destroyer Battalion of Black American soldiers during WWII

A soldier of the 614th Tank Destroyer Battalion

A soldier of the 614th Tank Destroyer Battalion poses with a round for the M3 anti-tank gun.

Source: United States Army Heritage and Education Center.

Date: 1945

Historical image showing Charlie Rattler of the 614th Tank Destroyer Battalion of Black American soldiers during WWII

Charlie Rattler of the 614th Tank Destroyer Battalion

Charlie Rattler, Third Platoon, Company C, the 614th Tank Destroyer Battalion sits on the ground with a bazooka.

Source: United States Army Heritage and Education Center.

Date: 1945

Historical image showing Charlie Rattler of the 614th Tank Destroyer Battalion is smoking a cigarette of Black American soldiers during WWII

Charlie Rattler of the 614th Tank Destroyer Battalion is smoking a cigarette

Charlie Rattler, Third Platoon, Company C, the 614th Tank Destroyer Battalion is smoking a cigarette. This photograph was published in a 1945.

Source: United States Army Heritage and Education Center.

Date: 1945

Historical image showing Charlie Rattler of the 614th Tank Destroyer Battalion in a foxhole with another soldier of Black American soldiers during WWII

Charlie Rattler of the 614th Tank Destroyer Battalion in a foxhole with another soldier

Charlie Rattler, of Third Platoon, C Company, the 614th Tank Destroyer Battalion together with another soldier in a foxhole.

Source: United States Army Heritage and Education Center.

Date: 1945

Historical image showing A camouflaged three inch gun of the 614th Tank Destoyer Battalion of Black American soldiers during WWII

A camouflaged three inch gun of the 614th Tank Destoyer Battalion

A three inch M5 gun covered by camouflage netting.

Source: United States Army Heritage and Education Center.

Date: 1945

Historical image showing A three inch gun of the 614th Tank Destroyer Battalion during a firing exercise of Black American soldiers during WWII

A three inch gun of the 614th Tank Destroyer Battalion during a firing exercise

Members of the gun crew of a tank destroyer unit load their piece during practice firing, somewhere in England, before leaving for the real thing on the continent. Left to Right: Private First Class Aurbery Morris (Hobbsville, NC), Private First Class J. C. Heatem (Detroit, MI), Private First Class Robert B. Russell (Ashville, NC), 1st Lt. U.V. Watkins (Huntsville, TX), Private First Class Cebe Young (Ashville, NC), Private First Class James H. Mason (Williamston, NC). 614th Tank Destroyer Battalion, Burley, England.

Source: United States Army Heritage and Education Center.

Date: 1945

Historical image showing An officer and an enlisted man in front of a halftrack of Black American soldiers during WWII

An officer and an enlisted man in front of a halftrack

An officer and an enlisted man of the 614th Tank Destroyer Battalion stand in front of a halftrack.

Source: United States Army Heritage and Education Center.

Date: 1945

Historical image showing Several soldiers of the 777th Field Artillery Battalion in a dugout of Black American soldiers during WWII

Several soldiers of the 777th Field Artillery Battalion in a dugout

Soldiers of a Field Artillery Battalion near Ubach, Germany, sit in dugout near their gun waiting for firing orders.

Source: National Archives and Records Administration (NAID: 178140868).

Date: 7 January 1945

Historical image showing Soldiers of the 24th Infantry Regiment man a 37mm gun of Black American soldiers during WWII

Soldiers of the 24th Infantry Regiment man a 37mm gun

Soldiers of the 24th Infantry Regiment in New Georgia man a 37mm gun used for beach against the enemy.

Source: National Archives and Records Administration: SC 329679.

Date: 15 October 1943

Historical image showing Members of the 758th Light Tank Battalion fire their 75mm howitzer of Black American soldiers during WWII

Members of the 758th Light Tank Battalion fire their 75mm howitzer

Members of the 758th Tank Battalion fire their 75mm howitzer in support of infantry movements on the Fifth Army front.

Source: National Archives and Records Administration: SC 329839.

Date: 4 April 1945

Historical image showing Soldiers of the 999th Field Artillery Battalion are about to fire another shell at a target. of Black American soldiers during WWII

Soldiers of the 999th Field Artillery Battalion are about to fire another shell at a target.

Another present from "Harlem to Hitler" is presented on behalf of the men of an artillery outfit which is firing at the barges in which the Germans are trying to escape across the River Seine. Montes-Gassicourt, France, August 20, 1944. The men are of the 999th Field Artillery Battalion, Battery A.

Source: United States Army Heritage and Edication Center

Date: 4 April 1945

Historical image showing John T. Fields, an armorer with the 332nd Fighter Group of Black American soldiers during WWII

John T. Fields, an armorer with the 332nd Fighter Group

Private First Class John T. Fields, an armorer with the 332nd Fighter Group, checks the ammunition of a P-51 Mustang.

Source: National Archives and Records Administration (NAID: 204909486)

Date: 28 August 1944

Historical image showing Opening of the 6888th Central Postal Directory Battalion bar in France of Black American soldiers during WWII

Opening of the 6888th Central Postal Directory Battalion bar in France

In Rouen, France, Second Lieutenant Freda le Beau (New Orleans, LA), post exchange officer, serves the first Coca Cola to Major Charity Adams (Columbia, South Carolina), at the grand opening of the WAC battalion's new snack bar.

Source: National Archives and Records Administration (NAID: 175539159).

Date: 1945

Historical image showing Major Charity Adams inspects the troops under her command of Black American soldiers during WWII

Major Charity Adams inspects the troops under her command

Somewhere in England, Maj. Charity E. Adams, Columbia, S.C., and Capt. Abbie N. Campbell, Tuskegee Institute, Tuskegee, Ala, during an inspection.

Source: National Archives and Records Administration: (NAID: 531249)

Date: February 1945

Historical image showing The arrival of the 6888th Central Postal Directory Battalion in Scotland of Black American soldiers during WWII

The arrival of the 6888th Central Postal Directory Battalion in Scotland

As a Scottish piper instructs Private First Class Edith Gaskill, Arlington, Va., in the art of playing bagpipes, Private Marie McKinney, Washington, D.C., examines his kilt. The Wacs are members of the first Black all-Wac postal unit to arrive in the European theater of operations. The unit will handle the Army Postal Directory Service for the entire theater. U.S. Army port, Greenock, Scotland.

Source: National Archives and Records Administration (NAID: 175539147)

Date: February 1945

Historical image showing Photograph of the Charity Adams and her company at Fort Des Moines, Iowa of Black American soldiers during WWII

Photograph of the Charity Adams and her company at Fort Des Moines, Iowa

WAAC Capt. Charity Adams of Columbia, S.C., who was commissioned from the first officer candidate class, and the first of her group to receive a commission, drills her company on the drill ground at the first Waac Training Center, Fort Des Moines, Iowa. Note: At that time the WAC (Women's Army Corps) was known as the WAAC (Women's Army Auxiliary Corps).

Source: National Archives and Records Administration (NAID: 531334)

Date: May 1943

Historical image showing Photograph of a Black American wedding in Rouen, France of Black American soldiers during WWII

Photograph of a Black American wedding in Rouen, France

Chaplain William T. Green reads the benediction services at the marriage ceremonies of Private First Class Florence A. Collins, a WAC of the 6888th Postal Directory Battalion, to Corporal William A. Johnson of the 1696th Labor Supervision Company. This is the 5th African American marriage to be performed in the European Theatre of Operation. A similar image appeared in The Michigan Chronicle, 6 October 1945. Note, a newspaper article gives the name William H. Johnson of the 169th Labor Supervision Company and mentions it's the first Black American marriage.

Source: Ike Skelton Combined Arms Research Library (SC 210939)

Date: 6 October 1945

Historical image showing A howitzer of the 593rd Field Artillery Battalion of Black American soldiers during WWII

A howitzer of the 593rd Field Artillery Battalion

1st section gun crew, Battery A, 593rd Field Artillery Battalion, 93rd Infantry Division, loads a 105mm howitzer and prepares to fire (Bougainville).

Source: National Archives and Records Administration: SC 364570

Date: 16 April 1944

Historical image showing A M4 Sherman tank of the 761st Tank Battalion of Black American soldiers during WWII

A M4 Sherman tank of the 761st Tank Battalion

A M4 Sherman tank of the 761st Tank Battalion. The men in this photograph would die less than 24 hours after this image was taken.

Source: National Archives and Records Administration: SC 196105-S

Date: 5 November 1944

Historical image showing A M4 Sherman tank of the 761st Tank Battalion is crossing a Bailey Bridge in France of Black American soldiers during WWII

A M4 Sherman tank of the 761st Tank Battalion is crossing a Bailey Bridge in France

A M4 Sherman tank of the 761st Tank Battalion is crossing a Bailey Bridge in France on their way to the frontline.

Source: National Archives and Records Administration (NAID: 175739015)

Date: 9 November 1944

Historical image showing A light tank with Black American trainees of Black American soldiers during WWII

A light tank with Black American trainees

Private First Class Dewey McClain, Jacksonville, Fla., Private Hulet MacHenry, Salina, Kan., and Private First Class Lester Baker, Alexandria, La. Armored School Det., Replacement and Training Command. (Naples area, Italy)

Source: National Archives and Records Administration: SC 364368

Date: 1 March 1945

Historical image showing Benjamin O. Davis of Black American soldiers during WWII

Benjamin O. Davis

Benjamin O. Davis, the commander of the 332nd Fighter Group.

Source: National Archives and Records Administration (NAID: 204992697)

Date: June 1944

Historical image showing Battery B, 49th Coast Artillery, section 2, fires at Japanese positions on Bougainville of Black American soldiers during WWII

Battery B, 49th Coast Artillery, section 2, fires at Japanese positions on Bougainville

This 155mm rifle, operated by Black troops, is firing at Jap positions on Bougainville. The soldier at left prepares to sponge the breech.

Source: Courtesy of the United States Army Heritage and Education Center

Date: 16 April 1944

Historical image showing First Sergeant James Sims shows Private John Stephens his .45 pistol of Black American soldiers during WWII

First Sergeant James Sims shows Private John Stephens his .45 pistol

First Sergeant James Sims of Los Angeles, who saw World War I, as a member of the 801st Pioneers, is shown here on his way to another war as top cutter of a Battery of C.A.A., which sailed on a transport from a Port of Embarkation in U.S. Sergeant Sims is telling Private John O. Stephens of Los Angeles how to handle a 45 in close quarters. Sims said Stephens is the brightest boy in his battery. August 1942. Battery A, 76th C.A.A. S.S. Mormacsea at Fort Mason, California.

Source: United States Army Heritage and Education Center

Date: 9 August 1942

Historical image showing Soldiers of the 76th Coast Artillery Regiment show their bayonets of Black American soldiers during WWII

Soldiers of the 76th Coast Artillery Regiment show their bayonets

"That pig sticker is so sharp it will slit a hair," says Pvt Wm Crook of Ripley, Tenn. He proves it too, with a hirsute speciment from the cranium of Pvt Theo Bean of Birmingham, Ala. The four soldiers are members of Hq. Co. of a C.A.A. unit. They sailed on the transport for overseas duty in the Pacific. They are not talking about slicing vegetables with these bayonets; they are eager to see Tokyo. Aboard a tranport from a Port of Embarkation in US. August 1942. Hq. Co. 76th C.A.A. SS Mormacsea at Fort Mason, Calif.

Source: United States Army Heritage and Education Center

Date: 9 August 1942

Historical image showing Soldiers of the 76th Coast Artillery Regiment are looking at their bayonets of Black American soldiers during WWII

Soldiers of the 76th Coast Artillery Regiment are looking at their bayonets

Another photograph of the same soldiers, where they are displaying their bayonets.

Source: United States Army Heritage and Education Center

Date: 9 August 1942

Historical image showing Soldiers of the 76th Coast Artillery Regiment asleep of Black American soldiers during WWII

Soldiers of the 76th Coast Artillery Regiment asleep

Half an hour after the Black soldiers of a regimental headquarters battery of the C.A.A. marched aboard the transport, many of them were bedded down in their close quarters and snoring. The line next the camera, from bunk up, consists of: Private Harrison Wyatt, Atlanta, Ga.; Technician Clarence L. Williams, Columbus, Ga.; Private Bennie Simmons, Goulds, Fla.; Private Patrick Williams, Wells Ferry, Ala.; Sgt. Clommie Watkins, Jackson, Tenn.; Sgt. Abi Stephens, Montgomery, Ala. Next row: Private Willie Brown, Fort Meyers, Fla.; Private William K. Watkins, Linden, Ala.; Private Flenard Van, Pursglove, W.Va, Corp. John G. Thomas, Chicago, Ill. 76th C.A.A. SS Mormacsea at Fort Mason, Calif. Sunday night.

Source: United States Army Heritage and Education Center

Date: 9 August 1942

Historical image showing Soldiers of the 76th Coast Artillery on board of the SS Mormacsea of Black American soldiers during WWII

Soldiers of the 76th Coast Artillery on board of the SS Mormacsea

"Down the hatch" Black soldiers of a C.A.A. unit, few of whom ever were aboard a ship before, get acquinted with a new world aboard the transport as the line pauses on deck at the door of a hatch which leads below to the bunk tiers. A Port of Embarkation in U.S. 76th C.A.A. SS Mormacsea at Fort Mason, Calif.

Source: United States Army Heritage and Education Center

Date: 9 August 1942

Historical image showing Soldiers of the 76th Coast Artillery are playing blackjack of Black American soldiers during WWII

Soldiers of the 76th Coast Artillery are playing blackjack

Members of A C.A.A. regimental band, atop their bunk section in the hold of a transport, are playing a little blackjack before turning in. Aboard a transport from a Port of Embarkation in U.S. 76th C.A.A. SS Mormacsea at Fort Mason, Calif.

Source: United States Army Heritage and Education Center

Date: 9 August 1942

Historical image showing Soldiers of the 76th or 77th Coast Artillery during a training exercise of Black American soldiers during WWII

Soldiers of the 76th or 77th Coast Artillery during a training exercise

C. D. nurse and defending medical troops pick up dead and wounded from the battle field, Ft. Moultrie, Charleston, S. C.

Source: United States Army Heritage and Education Center

Date: 22 October 1941

Historical image showing Soldiers of the 76th or 77th Coast Artillery during a training exercise of Black American soldiers during WWII

Soldiers of the 76th or 77th Coast Artillery during a training exercise

Defending troops of Ft. Moultrie on the charge. C. D. Air raid exercises at Charleston, S. C.

Source: United States Army Heritage and Education Center

Date: 22 October 1941

Historical image showing Soldiers of the 76th or 77th Coast Artillery during a training exercise of Black American soldiers during WWII

Soldiers of the 76th or 77th Coast Artillery during a training exercise

Soldiers at a charge after the parachutist have landed. C.D. Air raid exercises. Ft. Moultrie, Charleston, S. C.

Source: United States Army Heritage and Education Center

Date: 22 October 1941

Historical image showing Soldiers of the 76th or 77th Coast Artillery Regiment during a training exercise of Black American soldiers during WWII

Soldiers of the 76th or 77th Coast Artillery Regiment during a training exercise

Defending troops capture the enemy during C. D. air raids, Ft. Moultrie, Charleston, S. C.

Source: United States Army Heritage and Education Center

Date: 22 October 1941

Historical image showing Soldiers of the 76th Coast Artillery Regiment stand next to a large searchlight of Black American soldiers during WWII

Soldiers of the 76th Coast Artillery Regiment stand next to a large searchlight

Private Robert Byrd, Henry Johnson, John Hamlin, Battery E, 76th CAC (AA) at searchlight during C. D. air raids exercises. Fort Moultrie, Charleston, S. C.

Source: United States Army Heritage and Education Center

Date: 22 October 1941

Historical image showing Soldiers of Battery E the 76th Coast Artillery are lighting up the field during exercises of Black American soldiers during WWII

Soldiers of Battery E the 76th Coast Artillery are lighting up the field during exercises

Searchlights lighting up first aid exercises on the field at Charleston, S. C., during the C. D. Air raid exercises.

Source: United States Army Heritage and Education Center

Date: 22 October 1941

Historical image showing A 3-inch anti-aircraft gun of the 76th Coast Artillery Regiment of Black American soldiers during WWII

A 3-inch anti-aircraft gun of the 76th Coast Artillery Regiment

A 3-inch anti-aircraft gun manned by soldiers of the 76th Coast Artillery Regimenton the firing range at Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. This photograph was taken by Harry R Price, the regimental commander.

Source: United States Army Heritage and Education Center

Date: Undated

Historical image showing Major General Edward M. Almond, Commanding General of the 92nd Infantry Division, inspects his troops. of Black American soldiers during WWII

Major General Edward M. Almond, Commanding General of the 92nd Infantry Division, inspects his troops.

Maj. General Edward M. Almond, Commanding General of the 92nd Infantry Division in Italy, inspects his troops during a decoration ceremony.

Source: National Archives and Records Administration (NAID: 535547)

Date: March 1945

Historical image showing General George S. Patton converses with General Omar Bradly during their tour of the liberated Ohrdruf camp. On the left side, behind the MP, is a Black American soldier. of Black American soldiers during WWII

General George S. Patton converses with General Omar Bradly during their tour of the liberated Ohrdruf camp. On the left side, behind the MP, is a Black American soldier.

Ohrdruf camp was liberated on 4 April 1945 by the 4th Armored Division and the 89th Infantry Division. It would be the first camp to be liberated by the U.S. Army. On 12 April 1945, Generals Dwight D. Eisenhower, George S. Patton and Omar visited the camp. Eisenhower later said about his visit: “I made the visit deliberately, in order to be in a position to give first-hand evidence of these things if ever, in the future, there develops a tendency to charge these allegations merely to 'propaganda'." He later requested that journalists and members of Congress visited the camp so that they too would be a witness to the horrors of what happened at these places. Among those witnesses were also Black American soldiers.

Source: United States Holocaust Memorial Museum: 87662

Date: 12 April 1945

Historical image showing A 40-mm Bofors gun of the 452nd Anti Aircraft-Artillery Battalion of Black American soldiers during WWII

A 40-mm Bofors gun of the 452nd Anti Aircraft-Artillery Battalion

A 40-mm Bofors gun of Battery A, 452nd Anti-Aircraft Artillery Battalion.

Source: National Archives and Records Administration (NAID: 531222)

Date: 9 November 1944

Historical image showing Technical sergeant Alfred Masters, the first Black American sworn into the United States Marine Corps. of Black American soldiers during WWII

Technical sergeant Alfred Masters, the first Black American sworn into the United States Marine Corps.

Alfred Masters was sworn in on 1 June 1942 at 00:01 hours and is the first Black American to serve in the United States Marine Corps.

Source: Courtesy of Isabell Arch Masters Family

Date: 1944

Historical image showing Howard Perry, the first Black American to arrive at Camp Lejeune, NC. of Black American soldiers during WWII

Howard Perry, the first Black American to arrive at Camp Lejeune, NC.

Howard P. Perry, the first recruit to report for marine training at Montford Point, Camp Lejeune, NC, is often erroneously credited with being the first Black American enlisted marine. However, Perry enlisted on July 23, 1942. The first Black American sworn in as a marine was Alfred Masters.

Source: National Archives and Records Administration (NAID: 535870)

Date: 1942

Historical image showing Soldiers of the 218th Quartermaster Battalion are fueling jerricans. of Black American soldiers during WWII

Soldiers of the 218th Quartermaster Battalion are fueling jerricans.

Soldiers of the 218th Quartermaster Battalion are fueling jerrycans. These cans were used to fuel the advance of the Ninth Army during Operation Flashpoint. (Wegberg, Germany)

Source: United States Army Heritage and Education Center.

Date: 23 March 1945

Historical image showing An armed halftrack of the 827th Engineers Aviation Battalion. of Black American soldiers during WWII

An armed halftrack of the 827th Engineers Aviation Battalion.

Derived from original caption: Although the main job for the members of the 827th Engineers, is to construct an airport they still have to keep in trim for fighting. L to R: Private James Bryand, Sergeant Will L. Scott, Private First Class Dan Smith, and Corporal Woodrow George. This image also appeared in the Jackson Advocate of 4 September 1943, which alludes to an invasion of Germany. However, in September 1943, the Normandy landings were far in the future.

Source: Ike Skelton Combined Arms Research Library: SC 174587.

Date: 1943

Historical image showing A retreat ceremony somewhere in the South Pacific Area. of Black American soldiers during WWII

A retreat ceremony somewhere in the South Pacific Area.

"Old Glory" is lowered in a retreat ceremony somewhere in the South Pacific Area by Corporal John O. Crittonden, a member of Company A, 903rd Air Base Security Battalion.

Source: National Archives and Records Administration: SC 184656

Date: 29 June 1943

Historical image showing A message is speeded on its way by these men from a Headquarter Detachment of the 903rd Air Base Security Battalion. of Black American soldiers during WWII

A message is speeded on its way by these men from a Headquarter Detachment of the 903rd Air Base Security Battalion.

A message is speeded on its way by these men from a Headquarter Detachment of the 903rd Air Base Security Battalion somewhere in the South Pacific Area. L-R: T/5 Carl D. Hale, Sgt. William L. Shepard and T/4 R.C. Collins.

Source: National Archives and Records Administration: SC 164669

Date: undated

Historical image showing It's chow time for the 903rd Air Base Security Battalion. of Black American soldiers during WWII

It's chow time for the 903rd Air Base Security Battalion.

It's chow time at the 903rd Air Base Security Battalion in the South Pacific Area.

Source: National Archives and Records Administration: SC 184655

Date: 29 June 1943

Historical image showing Private Glenn Moore, Warren, Ohio, is vaccinated by by T/5 Henry Edwards, member of a Medical Detachment. of Black American soldiers during WWII

Private Glenn Moore, Warren, Ohio, is vaccinated by by T/5 Henry Edwards, member of a Medical Detachment.

A "shot" is given to Private Glenn Moore, Warren, Ohio, by T/5 Henry Edwards, member of a Medical Detachment serving in the South Pacific Area. Waiting are Private Willie J. L. Dawson, Greenville, S.C., and Private Curtis Daniel Knox, Palmetto, Ga

Source: National Archives and Records Administration: SC 184642

Date: 29 June 1943

Historical image showing Getting ready to turn in. of Black American soldiers during WWII

Getting ready to turn in.

Getting ready to turn in. 1st Lt. Harry L. Curtis, Morgantown, N.C., gives a few pointers to Corporal Alfred Summerville, Washington, D.C., on a sea-going barracks, as they prepare for an overseas journey. 350th Engineer Regiment aboard the S.S. Poelau Laut, Pier 41-S, San Francisco Port of Embarkation.

Source: National Archives and Records Administration: SC 171514

Date: 27 January, 1943.

Historical image showing Private Isaac Bartell, left, is instructed by S/Sgt. Thomas Blackstone. of Black American soldiers during WWII

Private Isaac Bartell, left, is instructed by S/Sgt. Thomas Blackstone.

Private Isaac Bartell, left, Detroit, Mich., gets last-minute instructions from S/Sgt. Thomas A. Blackstone, Leonardtown, Md., as they prepare to go overseas. Both are with the 350th Engineer Regiment, aboard the S.S. Poelau Laut, Pier 41-S, San Francisco Port of Embarkation.

Source: National Archives and Records Administration: SC 171515

Date: 27 January, 1943.

Historical image showing Private Robert A. Williams of Clarksdale. of Black American soldiers during WWII

Private Robert A. Williams of Clarksdale.

Private Robert A. Williams of Clarksdale, Miss., as he contemplates sleeping in a hammock aboard the transport on which his unit embarked for overseas. Company D, 462nd Port Battalion, embarked at San Francisco Port of Embarkation.

Source: National Archives and Records Administration: SC 171509

Date: 12 January 1943

Historical image showing Members of a Medical Detachment, 352nd Engineer Regiment, prepare for their overseas journey. of Black American soldiers during WWII

Members of a Medical Detachment, 352nd Engineer Regiment, prepare for their overseas journey.

Members of a Medical Detachment stowing their duffels and testing their hammocks on the deck of the transport on which they embarked for overseas. Detachment of the 352nd Engineer Regiment, embarked at San Francisco Port of Embarkation.

Source: National Archives and Records Administration: SC 171512

Date: 12 January 1943

Historical image showing The remaining tanks of the Byrne Task Force are serviced by their crews. of Black American soldiers during WWII

The remaining tanks of the Byrne Task Force are serviced by their crews.

Before moving on to the next objective, the remaining tanks of the Byrne Task Force are serviced by their crews. Company B, 784th Tank Battalion, at Sevelen, Germany.

Source: National Archives and Records Administration: SC 336785

Date: 5 March 1945

Historical image showing Lieutenant Colonel Nolan Troxell teaches infantry warfare to a group of Black infantry volunteers. of Black American soldiers during WWII

Lieutenant Colonel Nolan Troxell teaches infantry warfare to a group of Black infantry volunteers.

Lt. Col. Nolan Troxell, 1609 Olive St., Little Rock, Arkansas, veteran combat officer explains the tactics of infantry warfare to a group of Black soldiers, all volunteers from service units.

Source: National Archives and Records Administration: SC 337400

Date: 28 February 1945

Historical image showing Private George E. Stevens during infantry training. of Black American soldiers during WWII

Private George E. Stevens during infantry training.

At the 47th Reinforcement Depot, Private George E. Stevens, Abbottsburg, North Carolina, undergoes some serious infantry training. 47th Reinforcement Depot. Noyon, France.

Source: National Archives and Records Administration: SC 337399

Date: 28 February 1945

Historical image showing Private Felix Lawson and Private Sammie Jenkins dig a foxhole. of Black American soldiers during WWII

Private Felix Lawson and Private Sammie Jenkins dig a foxhole.

Private Felix Lawson, 534 West St., [illegible], Md., and Private Sammie Jenkins, 1200 17th St. Tuscaloosa, Ala., demonstrate the proper method of digging a foxhole.

Source: National Archives and Records Administration: SC 337398

Date: 28 February 1945

Historical image showing Soldiers of the 92nd Infantry Division are drying themselves in a ruined house. of Black American soldiers during WWII

Soldiers of the 92nd Infantry Division are drying themselves in a ruined house.

Private Edward Imes, 1224 Rear Div. Ave., East St. Louis, IL.; T/5 William White, 246 South Johnson Ave., Pontiac, MI.; Private First Class James B. Glasby, 220 South Leffingwell Ave., St. Louis, MO.; and Private Henry C. McKinney, 651 Reed St., Atlanta, GA. Viareggio Area, Italy.

Source: National Archives and Records Administration: SC 364370

Date: 14 December, 1944

Historical image showing Soldiers with a thompson machine gun. of Black American soldiers during WWII

Soldiers with a thompson machine gun.

Although engaged almost fulltime on the construction of an air field these members of an aviation engineer battalion in England keep up to date with military duties. Sergeant Nathaniel Walker, Princeton, North Carolina (left) instructs Sergeant Howell J. Atkins, Fort Worth, Texas, in the use of a Thompson submachine gun. Note the drum magazine on the weapon.

Source: United States Army Heritage and Education Center

Date: 29 June 1943

Historical image showing The 22nd Special Naval Construction Battalion celebrates peace. of Black American soldiers during WWII

The 22nd Special Naval Construction Battalion celebrates peace.

Members of the 22nd Special Naval Construction Battalion cheering news of Japan's acceptance of peace terms. Note sign: War is over! Good-Bye Pacific. Hello USA. This photograph is taken at Naval Amphibious Base, Manus, Admiralty Islands,

Source: Naval History and Heritage Command: 80-G-338470

Date: 15 August 1945

Historical image showing Steward's Mate Second Class James Lee Frazer reads the Bible of Black American soldiers during WWII

Steward's Mate Second Class James Lee Frazer reads the Bible

Steward's Mate Second Class James Lee Frazer takes time to read a few chapters from his Bible, part of his daily devotional routine while serving on board an aircraft carrier. It's the night before his ship launched strikes on the Manila Bay area in support of the Lingayen Operation.

Source: Naval History and Heritage Command: 80-G-305241

Date: 9 January 1945

Historical image showing Mess attendants of the USS Copahee (ACV-12) man a 20mm machine gun of Black American soldiers during WWII

Mess attendants of the USS Copahee (ACV-12) man a 20mm machine gun

Mess Attendants manning a 20mm machine gun, in a gun tub beside the flight deck. The carrier, USS Copahee (ACV-12), was then en route from Alameda, California, to the southwest Pacific.

Source: Naval History and Heritage Command: 80-G-71586

Date: 9 September 1942

Historical image showing Wardroom of the USS Cero (SS-225) of Black American soldiers during WWII

Wardroom of the USS Cero (SS-225)

Officers eating in the submarine's Wardroom, served by their Stewards, during Cero's shakedown period, circa July-August 1943, at the Groton, Connecticut, Submarine Base. Photographed by Charles Fenno Jacobs. Officers present are (from left to right): Lieutenant Commander David H. McClintock; Commander David C. White, Commanding Officer; Lieutenant Charles D. Nace.

Source: Naval History and Heritage Command: 80-G-K-15541

Date: July or August 1943

Historical image showing Steward's Mates are playing cards of Black American soldiers during WWII

Steward's Mates are playing cards

Black American stewards are passing the time with a card game in their berthing space on board an aircraft carrier, the evening before their ship launched strikes on Manila.

Source: Naval History and Heritage Command: 80-G-305242

Date: November 1944.

Historical image showing Miles King carries a loaded 20mm machine gun magazine of Black American soldiers during WWII

Miles King carries a loaded 20mm machine gun magazine

Steward's Mate Second Class Miles Davis King carries a loaded magazine for a 20mm machine gun, as the escort carrier, USS Tulagi (CVE-72), steams through the Mediterranean Sea en route to the Invasion of Southern France.

Source: Naval History and Heritage Command: 80-G-417623

Date: A few days prior to 15 August 1944.

Historical image showing Major General John C.H. Lee and Brig. General Benjamin O. Davis inspect Services of Supply troops somewhere in England. of Black American soldiers during WWII

Major General John C.H. Lee and Brig. General Benjamin O. Davis inspect Services of Supply troops somewhere in England.

Bristol, England. Company C, 398th Port Battalion.

Source: National Archives and Records Administration: SC 151563

Date: 2 October 1942

Historical image showing Brig. General Benjamin Davis is making a personnel inspection of Black troops somewhere in England. of Black American soldiers during WWII

Brig. General Benjamin Davis is making a personnel inspection of Black troops somewhere in England.

The prescribed way of wearing your identification tags, dog tags, is as important as making your bed in the army. Bristol, England. 398th Port Battalion.

Source: National Archives and Records Administration: SC 151566

Date: 2 October 1942

Historical image showing GI chorus entertains U.S. troops at large HQ in Belgium on Christmas Eve. of Black American soldiers during WWII

GI chorus entertains U.S. troops at large HQ in Belgium on Christmas Eve.

The chorus under the supervision of Chaplain William A. Smith, of Sioux Falls, S.Dak., and lead by Corporal John Wesley Mann, New York City, sang Black American spirituals and Christmas carols for over an hour. 390th Engineer Regiment Chorus, Namur, Belgium.

Source: National Archives and Records Administration: SC 364371

Date: 24 December 1944

Historical image showing Three bakers at a depot, somewhere in England, test a fresh pan of loaves as they come out of the oven. of Black American soldiers during WWII

Three bakers at a depot, somewhere in England, test a fresh pan of loaves as they come out of the oven.

Left to right: Private First Class James Brown, 419 Sullivan St., Greensville, Ky., T/Sgt., James McClattie, Route #1, Box 28, Evans, Ga., and Tec 5 Ben J. Carpenter, Boyston, Ga. General Depot G-50, Taunton, England.

Source: National Archives and Records Administration: SC 364372

Date: 19 November 1944

Historical image showing Part of audience enjoying all-soldier entertainment near VII headquarters in Germany, sponsored by Quartermaster troops. of Black American soldiers during WWII

Part of audience enjoying all-soldier entertainment near VII headquarters in Germany, sponsored by Quartermaster troops.

999th Quartermaster Salvage Company, VII Corps.

Source: National Archives and Records Administration: SC 364374

Date: 7 December 1944

Historical image showing Four of the more than 200 service troops in France who volunteered for combat service, many of them accepting reductions in grade from Sgt. and Corporal to qualify for the new assignment. of Black American soldiers during WWII

Four of the more than 200 service troops in France who volunteered for combat service, many of them accepting reductions in grade from Sgt. and Corporal to qualify for the new assignment.

In the doorway of the train taking them to an infantry training center are: Private John Hightower, Hartford, Conn.; Private First Class James Brock, Philadelphia, Pa.; Private First Class Herbert E. West, Philadelphia, Pa.; and Private Lenzy Walker, San Antonio, Texas.

Source: National Archives and Records Administration: SC 364375

Date: 25 February 1945

Historical image showing The post chapel has large crowd of Black troops in afternoon of Bishop Gregg sermon. of Black American soldiers during WWII

The post chapel has large crowd of Black troops in afternoon of Bishop Gregg sermon.

Source: National Archives and Records Administration: SC 364367

Date: 22 December 1943

Historical image showing Personnel of the Postal Unit of a depot in England sort packages and mail. of Black American soldiers during WWII

Personnel of the Postal Unit of a depot in England sort packages and mail.

Left to right: Private First Class Wilbur L. Grimillion, 4202 S. Michigan Ave., Chicago, Ill., 1st Lt. Ernest J. Harris, 1118 Embury Ave., Neptune, N.J., and Corporal William J. Cooper, 1349 Christian St., Philadelphia, Pa. 511th Army Postal Unit, General Depot G-50, Taunton, England.

Source: National Archives and Records Administration: SC 364373

Date: 19 November 1944

Historical image showing S/Sgt. Jacobs E. White, RT 4 Sumter, S.C., pulls his rank on his twin brother, Corporal Benjamin S. White, by getting him to police up the area at Camp Atlanta near Chalons, France. of Black American soldiers during WWII

S/Sgt. Jacobs E. White, RT 4 Sumter, S.C., pulls his rank on his twin brother, Corporal Benjamin S. White, by getting him to police up the area at Camp Atlanta near Chalons, France.

Both men are with 3118th 3118th Engineer Fire Fighting Platoon awaiting redeployment to the States.

Source: National Archives and Records Administration: SC 364379

Date: 26 July 1945

Historical image showing Corporal David Shanks, gunner; and Sgt. Harold Edwards, on elevation of #3 90mm AA gun position of Btry. D, 742nd AA Battalion. of Black American soldiers during WWII

Corporal David Shanks, gunner; and Sgt. Harold Edwards, on elevation of #3 90mm AA gun position of Btry. D, 742nd AA Battalion.

Espiritu Santo, New Hebrides.

Source: National Archives and Records Administration: SC 364568

Date: 17 April 1944

Historical image showing Before attack: armored infantry dug-in in a field prior to attacking Nassig, Germany. of Black American soldiers during WWII

Before attack: armored infantry dug-in in a field prior to attacking Nassig, Germany.

Tanks that will support the attack protect infantrymen from surprise enemy thrust. Company D, 66th Armored Infantry Battalion, 43rd Tank Battalion, 12th Armored Division. Nassig, Germany.

Source: National Archives and Records Administration: SC 364383

Date: 1 April 1945

Historical image showing Loading a 155mm M1 rifle of Btry B, 49th Coast Artillery, Section 2, Black troops operating. of Black American soldiers during WWII

Loading a 155mm M1 rifle of Btry B, 49th Coast Artillery, Section 2, Black troops operating.

Location not specified.

Source: National Archives and Records Administration: SC 364569

Date: 16 April 1944

Historical image showing Members of the 49th Coast Artillery, (Colored) firing 155mm howitzer at night on Bougainville. of Black American soldiers during WWII

Members of the 49th Coast Artillery, (Colored) firing 155mm howitzer at night on Bougainville.

49th Coastal Artillery.

Source: National Archives and Records Administration: SC 364572

Date:

Historical image showing Sgt. John C. Clark, Lorman, Miss., and S/Sgt. Ford M. Shaw, Tuscon, Arizo., (l-r) clean their rifles in bivouac area alongside the (illegible) Trail, Bogainville. of Black American soldiers during WWII

Sgt. John C. Clark, Lorman, Miss., and S/Sgt. Ford M. Shaw, Tuscon, Arizo., (l-r) clean their rifles in bivouac area alongside the (illegible) Trail, Bogainville.

They are members of Co. E, 25th Combat Team, 93rd Infantry Division (colored). This is the first time that Black ground troops have been used in this theater in combat. 93rd Infantry Division.

Source: National Archives and Records Administration: SC 364565

Date: 4 April 1944

Historical image showing Before taking off on a pass, Corporal Clarence Carter, 1808 Bainbridge St. Philadelphia, Pa., with 411th Port Company, gives his shoes a good shine. of Black American soldiers during WWII

Before taking off on a pass, Corporal Clarence Carter, 1808 Bainbridge St. Philadelphia, Pa., with 411th Port Company, gives his shoes a good shine.

Le Havre Port of Embarkation, 411th Port Company.

Source: National Archives and Records Administration: SC 364378

Date: 3 August 1945

Historical image showing Brig. General Benjamin O. Davis and Maj. General John C.H. Lee inspect Black troops. of Black American soldiers during WWII

Brig. General Benjamin O. Davis and Maj. General John C.H. Lee inspect Black troops.

The inspection happened in Bristol, England.

Source: National Archives and Records Administration: SC 151569

Date: 2 October 1942

Historical image showing 92nd. Division offensive. Men of 370th Inf. Regt. dismounted from the tanks used to carry them to vicinity of Cinquale Canal, move away from tanks. of Black American soldiers during WWII

92nd. Division offensive. Men of 370th Inf. Regt. dismounted from the tanks used to carry them to vicinity of Cinquale Canal, move away from tanks.

370th Infantry Regiment, 92nd Infantry Division.

Source: National Archives and Records Administration: SC 364369

Date: 8 February 1945

Historical image showing Major General John C.H. Lee during an inspection tour of Black troops somewhere in England. of Black American soldiers during WWII

Major General John C.H. Lee during an inspection tour of Black troops somewhere in England.

The 398th Port Battalion, Services of Supply, Bristol, England.

Source: National Archives and Records Administration: SC 151564

Date: 2 October 1942

Historical image showing Major General John C.H. Lee and Brig. General Benj. O. Davis inspect troops somewhere in England. of Black American soldiers during WWII

Major General John C.H. Lee and Brig. General Benj. O. Davis inspect troops somewhere in England.

Company C, 398th Port Bn., Bristol, England.

Source: National Archives and Records Administration: SC 151567

Date: 2 October 1942

Historical image showing At the newly opened Red Cross club in Cherbourg, Corporal Charles C. Murphyel gets his share of Yankee doughnuts and coffee. of Black American soldiers during WWII

At the newly opened Red Cross club in Cherbourg, Corporal Charles C. Murphyel gets his share of Yankee doughnuts and coffee.

Girls are French Red Cross volunteers.

Source: National Archives and Records Administration: SC 329721

Date: 29 July 1944

Historical image showing Brig. General Benjamin O. Davis, left, and Maj. General John C.H. Lee inspect troops during a tour of Black soldiers somewhere in England. of Black American soldiers during WWII

Brig. General Benjamin O. Davis, left, and Maj. General John C.H. Lee inspect troops during a tour of Black soldiers somewhere in England.

Bristol, England.

Source: National Archives and Records Administration: SC 151573

Date: 2 October 1944

Historical image showing During an inspection tour of Black troops of the Services of Supply somewhere in England, Brigadier General Benjamin O. Davis examines a rifle of one of the men. of Black American soldiers during WWII

During an inspection tour of Black troops of the Services of Supply somewhere in England, Brigadier General Benjamin O. Davis examines a rifle of one of the men.

Bristol, England.

Source: National Archives and Records Administration: SC 151574

Date: 2 October 1942

Historical image showing Brig. General Benjamin O. Davis explains mechanics of a rifle to a Black trooper. of Black American soldiers during WWII

Brig. General Benjamin O. Davis explains mechanics of a rifle to a Black trooper.

Company B, 244th Quartermaster Battalion, Bristol, England.

Source: National Archives and Records Administration: SC 151577

Date: 2 October 1942

Historical image showing WOJO Clarence I. Godbold, Yonkers, N.Y., is personnel officer of a Motor Transport unit near Nancy, France. of Black American soldiers during WWII

WOJO Clarence I. Godbold, Yonkers, N.Y., is personnel officer of a Motor Transport unit near Nancy, France.

761st Tank Battalion.

Source: National Archives and Records Administration: SC 196101-S

Date: 5 November 1944

Historical image showing Brig. General Benjamin O. Davis is greatly satisfied with the skill of the individual soldier during a close inspection of Black troops in England. of Black American soldiers during WWII

Brig. General Benjamin O. Davis is greatly satisfied with the skill of the individual soldier during a close inspection of Black troops in England.

Company C, 398th Port Battalion., Services of Supply. Bristol, England.

Source: National Archives and Records Administration: SC 151575

Date: 8 October 1942

Historical image showing The .50 cal. machine gun and crew of the 90th Coastal Artillery are temporarily stationed at Oujda, North Africa. of Black American soldiers during WWII

The .50 cal. machine gun and crew of the 90th Coastal Artillery are temporarily stationed at Oujda, North Africa.

This stationing occurred near U.S. Fifth Army headquarters upon the request of the Sultan of Morocco for his protection during his visit there.

Source: National Archives and Records Administration: SC 329821

Date: 25 June 1943

Historical image showing Members of the 2nd Bn., 25th Combat Team, 93rd Div., wade across the Laruma River carrying mortar shells to the other side. of Black American soldiers during WWII

Members of the 2nd Bn., 25th Combat Team, 93rd Div., wade across the Laruma River carrying mortar shells to the other side.

93rd Infantry Division.

Source: National Archives and Records Administration: SC 196150

Date: 4 April 1944

Historical image showing Brig. General Benjamin O. Davis during inspection of quarters of Black troops in England. of Black American soldiers during WWII

Brig. General Benjamin O. Davis during inspection of quarters of Black troops in England.

Bristol, England. Company B, 244th Quartermaster Battalion.

Source: National Archives and Records Administration: SC 151578

Date: 2 October 1942

Historical image showing Members of a Port Battalion unload boxes of turkeys from liberty ships to trucks for transportation to all the fighting fronts for "Turkey Day" dinner. of Black American soldiers during WWII

Members of a Port Battalion unload boxes of turkeys from liberty ships to trucks for transportation to all the fighting fronts for "Turkey Day" dinner.

(L to R) Private Fred Johnson, Ft. Worth, Texas, and Private First Class Willie Seals, Dallas, Texas. E.T.O.

Source: National Archives and Records Administration: SC 196205-S

Date: 5 November 1944

Historical image showing Capt. Garland N. Adamson, Chicago, Ill., is unit surgeon of an outfit near Nancy, France. of Black American soldiers during WWII

Capt. Garland N. Adamson, Chicago, Ill., is unit surgeon of an outfit near Nancy, France.

761st Tank Battalion.

Source: National Archives and Records Administration: SC 196102-S

Date: 5 November 1944

Historical image showing En route to Hill 165, members of the 93rd Division struggle through clinging mud along the East-West trail on an island in the South Pacific. of Black American soldiers during WWII

En route to Hill 165, members of the 93rd Division struggle through clinging mud along the East-West trail on an island in the South Pacific.

These are the first Black infantry troops to be used in combat in this theater. First Battalion, 25th Combat Team, 93rd Infantry Division.

Source: National Archives and Records Administration: SC 196151

Date: 15 April 1944

Historical image showing 2nd Lt. Joe E. Johnson, New York City, is a maintenance officer of a Motor Transport unit awaiting action near Nancy, France. of Black American soldiers during WWII

2nd Lt. Joe E. Johnson, New York City, is a maintenance officer of a Motor Transport unit awaiting action near Nancy, France.

761st Tank Battalion.

Source: National Archives and Records Administration: SC 196104-S

Date: 5 November 1944

Historical image showing Field officers of a Motor Transport unit await action near Nancy, France. of Black American soldiers during WWII

Field officers of a Motor Transport unit await action near Nancy, France.

Left to right: Capt. Ivan H. Harrison, Detroit, Mich., Capt. Irvin McHenry, Leavenworth, Kan., and 2nd Lt. James C. Lightfoot, Washington D.C.

Source: National Archives and Records Administration: SC 196103-S

Date: 5 November 1944

Historical image showing A newly captured crossroad carries east and west bound traffic as Lt. General George S. Patton's Third Army smashes towards the Rhine. of Black American soldiers during WWII

A newly captured crossroad carries east and west bound traffic as Lt. General George S. Patton's Third Army smashes towards the Rhine.

Source: National Archives and Records Administration: SC 197158

Date: 23 November 1944

Historical image showing An outdoor class in airplane identification is held by Capt. Seymour Tucker of an Air Base Security Battalion. of Black American soldiers during WWII

An outdoor class in airplane identification is held by Capt. Seymour Tucker of an Air Base Security Battalion.

He is using a chart pinned to a tree to demonstrate. This event occurred somewhere in the South Pacific Area.

Source: National Archives and Records Administration: SC 184658

Date: 29 June 1943

Historical image showing "Tropical Boogie-Woogie" performed by Private Albert Wright in a recreation hall in the South Pacific Area. of Black American soldiers during WWII

"Tropical Boogie-Woogie" performed by Private Albert Wright in a recreation hall in the South Pacific Area.

The men are members of an Air Base Security Battalion.

Source: National Archives and Records Administration: SC 184657

Date: 29 June 1943

Historical image showing One of the strangest methods of merchandise delivery yet to be devised is that of parachuting eggs to earth for the use of American soldiers in the jungles of Burma. of Black American soldiers during WWII

One of the strangest methods of merchandise delivery yet to be devised is that of parachuting eggs to earth for the use of American soldiers in the jungles of Burma.

Corporal Fred E. Kennon, Chester, S.C., is packing eggs for dropping by a parachute. More than 200 eggs are packed in each basket using rice husks to absorb shock.

Source: National Archives and Records Administration: SC 184776-S

Date: 1944

Historical image showing Sgt. Walter Rothschild of Birmingham, Ala., gets a "G.I." haircut while a Fijian native awaits his turn. of Black American soldiers during WWII

Sgt. Walter Rothschild of Birmingham, Ala., gets a "G.I." haircut while a Fijian native awaits his turn.

The barber is Corporal Ollie Strong, Harperville, Miss. Both soldiers are from an Air Base Security Battalion somewhere in the South Pacific Area.

Source: National Archives and Records Administration: SC 184651

Date: 29 June 1943

Historical image showing A good dinner is in store for a company of an Air Base Security Battalion in the South Pacific Area, judging by the smile of Sgt. Walter Rothschild. of Black American soldiers during WWII

A good dinner is in store for a company of an Air Base Security Battalion in the South Pacific Area, judging by the smile of Sgt. Walter Rothschild.

Source: National Archives and Records Administration: SC 184650

Date: 29 June 1943

Historical image showing "Young Kid Usher" spars with Private First Class John D. Henry in a friendly boxing match. of Black American soldiers during WWII

"Young Kid Usher" spars with Private First Class John D. Henry in a friendly boxing match.

The referee is Sgt. Murphy Guldry, Los Angeles, Calif., who formerly was Usher's trainer and manager. This scene is at an Air Base Security Battalion in the South Pacific Area.

Source: National Archives and Records Administration: SC 184654

Date: 29 June 1943

Historical image showing The body of a dead Black soldier bears mute testimony to the force of the German drive down the Serchio Valley. of Black American soldiers during WWII

The body of a dead Black soldier bears mute testimony to the force of the German drive down the Serchio Valley.

The dead soldier contrasts sharply with the tranquility of the Apennine winter scenery about him. Barga, Italy.

Source: National Archives and Records Administration: SC 198949

Date: 31 December 1944

Historical image showing Tanks of the 758th Light Tank Battalion fire in support as the Nisei regiment pushes on Mt. Belvedere. of Black American soldiers during WWII

Tanks of the 758th Light Tank Battalion fire in support as the Nisei regiment pushes on Mt. Belvedere.

Source: National Archives and Records Administration: SC 329840

Date: 4 April 1945

Historical image showing Members of the 758th Light Tank Battalion fire their howitzer in support of infantry movements on the Fifth Army front. of Black American soldiers during WWII

Members of the 758th Light Tank Battalion fire their howitzer in support of infantry movements on the Fifth Army front.

Source: National Archives and Records Administration: SC 329839

Date: 4 April 1945

Historical image showing Heavily-laden American Black troops walk across the decks of British "Zed Lighters" to be carried ashore. of Black American soldiers during WWII

Heavily-laden American Black troops walk across the decks of British "Zed Lighters" to be carried ashore.

They came on the French troop ship "Columbie" from the United States. Leghorn area, Italy.

Source: National Archives and Records Administration: SC 195583-S

Date: 6 October 1944

Historical image showing Querceta jammed with armor as the 92nd Division takes the offensive. of Black American soldiers during WWII

Querceta jammed with armor as the 92nd Division takes the offensive.

These tanks were used to subdue some German positions on the hill mass to the right of Highway #1 north of Querceta.

Source: National Archives and Records Administration: SC 201449

Date: 8 February 1945

Historical image showing A convoy unloading men and supplies north of Agropoli, Italy. of Black American soldiers during WWII

A convoy unloading men and supplies north of Agropoli, Italy.

Salerno area, Italy.

Source: National Archives and Records Administration: SC 180048

Date: 21 September 1943

Historical image showing Black hospital - 335th Station Hospital, Tagap, Burma. of Black American soldiers during WWII

Black hospital - 335th Station Hospital, Tagap, Burma.

Playing an important part in the rehabilitation of patients is Red Cross worker Bernice Grice of Omaha, Nebraska. Miss Grice plans parties and card games and provides recreational facilities for patients that include motion pictures in the wards.

Source: National Archives and Records Administration: SC 201412

Date: January 1945

Historical image showing T/4 Claude Mann, Chicago, ILL, is the driver of an M-4 tank attached to a motor transport unit, near Nacy, France. of Black American soldiers during WWII

T/4 Claude Mann, Chicago, ILL, is the driver of an M-4 tank attached to a motor transport unit, near Nacy, France.

761st Tank Battalion.

Source: National Archives and Records Administration: SC 196110-S

Date: 5 November 1944

Historical image showing Sgt. Harvey Woodward, Howard, Ga., is a commander of an M-4 tank, somewhere in France. of Black American soldiers during WWII

Sgt. Harvey Woodward, Howard, Ga., is a commander of an M-4 tank, somewhere in France.

Nancy, France. 761st Tank Battalion.

Source: National Archives and Records Administration: SC 196108-S

Date: 5 November 1944

Historical image showing Private Nathaniel Simmons, Beaford, S.C., is the assistant driver of an M-4 tank, somewhere in France. Nancy. of Black American soldiers during WWII

Private Nathaniel Simmons, Beaford, S.C., is the assistant driver of an M-4 tank, somewhere in France. Nancy.

761st Tank Battalion.

Source: National Archives and Records Administration: SC 196109-S

Date: 5 November 1944

Historical image showing Private L.C. Byrd, Tuscaloosa, Ala., is a commander in an M-4 tank of a Motor Transport unit near Nancy, France. of Black American soldiers during WWII

Private L.C. Byrd, Tuscaloosa, Ala., is a commander in an M-4 tank of a Motor Transport unit near Nancy, France.

761st Tank Battalion.

Source: National Archives and Records Administration: SC 196107-S

Date: 5 November 1944

Historical image showing Corporal Carlton Chapman, Pembroke, Va., is a machine gunner in an M4 tank attached to a Motor Transport unit near Nancy, France. of Black American soldiers during WWII

Corporal Carlton Chapman, Pembroke, Va., is a machine gunner in an M4 tank attached to a Motor Transport unit near Nancy, France.

761st Tank Battalion.

Source: National Archives and Records Administration: SC 196106-S

Date:

Historical image showing Capt. Cleetus C. Clemens conducts services at U.S. Military Cemetery No. 1 in Foy, Belgium. of Black American soldiers during WWII

Capt. Cleetus C. Clemens conducts services at U.S. Military Cemetery No. 1 in Foy, Belgium.

This service was held for men of the 3201st Quartermaster Service Company.

Source: National Archives and Records Administration: SC 201455

Date: 26 February 1945

Historical image showing U.S. casualties on the Third Army front are unloaded for burial at U.S. Military Cemetery in Foy, Belgium. of Black American soldiers during WWII

U.S. casualties on the Third Army front are unloaded for burial at U.S. Military Cemetery in Foy, Belgium.

90th Infantry Division.

Source: National Archives and Records Administration: SC 201456

Date: 26 February 1945

Historical image showing American casualties are wrapped in mattress covers for burial at U.S. Military Cemetery No. 1 in Foy, Belgium. of Black American soldiers during WWII

American casualties are wrapped in mattress covers for burial at U.S. Military Cemetery No. 1 in Foy, Belgium.

Source: National Archives and Records Administration: SC 201457

Date: 26 February 1945

Historical image showing A DUKW operated by men of a port battalion carries cargo from Cherbourg harbor to mainland France. of Black American soldiers during WWII

A DUKW operated by men of a port battalion carries cargo from Cherbourg harbor to mainland France.

463rd Amphibious Truck Company.

Source: National Archives and Records Administration: SC 193030

Date: 18 August 1944

Historical image showing Private Alfred Roberts and Private Louis Peters transfer ammunition from a Liberty ship to the coast of France using a DUKW. of Black American soldiers during WWII

Private Alfred Roberts and Private Louis Peters transfer ammunition from a Liberty ship to the coast of France using a DUKW.

These men have been operating with their company in this capacity since D-Day.

Source: National Archives and Records Administration: SC 193031

Date: 18 August 1944

Historical image showing S/Sgt. William H. Holly and Sgt. Moses H. Mason repair a drive shaft housing using an improvised babbit mold. of Black American soldiers during WWII

S/Sgt. William H. Holly and Sgt. Moses H. Mason repair a drive shaft housing using an improvised babbit mold.

These men have been working in France since D-Day plus one.

Source: National Archives and Records Administration: SC 193032

Date:

Historical image showing Sgt. Albert R. Jenkins, 1st Lt. Loren J. Pryor, and Sgt. Junius Meade straighten a propeller shaft of a DUKW. of Black American soldiers during WWII

Sgt. Albert R. Jenkins, 1st Lt. Loren J. Pryor, and Sgt. Junius Meade straighten a propeller shaft of a DUKW.

This work was performed on a machine improvised for this task when new propeller shafts were unavailable.

Source: National Archives and Records Administration: SC 193033

Date: 18 August 1944

Historical image showing S/Sgt. Sam Beal makes a wooden stud bearing for a DUKW. of Black American soldiers during WWII

S/Sgt. Sam Beal makes a wooden stud bearing for a DUKW.

This stud, normally made of metal, was fashioned by Sgt. Beal and his maintenance team as a "make do" solution when replacements were unavailable.

Source: National Archives and Records Administration: SC 193034

Date: 18 August 1944

Historical image showing Corporal Oscar Adams and Corporal Floyd Carrio design an improvised rudder for DUKWs. of Black American soldiers during WWII

Corporal Oscar Adams and Corporal Floyd Carrio design an improvised rudder for DUKWs.

Corporal Adams, a welder, and Corporal Carrio, a mechanic, worked together to create this rudder when replacements were unavailable on the beaches during D-Day and after.

Source: National Archives and Records Administration: SC 193035

Date:

Historical image showing Corporal Edward W.P. Landrum takes time out to shave during a break in firing. of Black American soldiers during WWII

Corporal Edward W.P. Landrum takes time out to shave during a break in firing.

His field artillery unit was engaged in firing on enemy barges trying to escape across the Seine River at Mantes-Gassicourt, France, 15 miles below Paris.

Source: National Archives and Records Administration: SC 193012-S

Date: 20 August 1944

Historical image showing Another projectile from an 8-inch howitzer is fired to stop the German retreat across the Seine River. of Black American soldiers during WWII

Another projectile from an 8-inch howitzer is fired to stop the German retreat across the Seine River.

This occurred opposite the town of Mantes-Gassicourt, France, 15 miles below Paris.

Source: National Archives and Records Administration: SC 193015-S

Date: 20 August 1944

Historical image showing Another present from "Harlem to Hitler" is presented on behalf of an artillery outfit firing at German escape barges across the River Seine. of Black American soldiers during WWII

Another present from "Harlem to Hitler" is presented on behalf of an artillery outfit firing at German escape barges across the River Seine.

Montes-Gassicourt, France.

Source: National Archives and Records Administration: SC 192991-S

Date: 20 August 1944

Historical image showing Private First Class Albert Buhlig and Private First Class Pedro Hernandez direct traffic through the streets of Cherbourg, France. of Black American soldiers during WWII

Private First Class Albert Buhlig and Private First Class Pedro Hernandez direct traffic through the streets of Cherbourg, France.

Source: National Archives and Records Administration: SC 191873

Date: 17 July 1944

Historical image showing Black troops of a field artillery battery emplace a 155mm howitzer in France. of Black American soldiers during WWII

Black troops of a field artillery battery emplace a 155mm howitzer in France.

They have been following the advance of the infantry and are now setting up this new position. Periers sector, along the river Seves. Battery A, 333rd Field Artillery Battalion, 90th Infantry Division.

Source: National Archives and Records Administration: SC 191890-S

Date: 28 July 1944

Historical image showing First Black troops arrive by train to their assigned post of duty in Cherbourg, France. of Black American soldiers during WWII

First Black troops arrive by train to their assigned post of duty in Cherbourg, France.

This troop train is being unloaded, bringing the first Black troops to their assigned post of duty by train.

Source: National Archives and Records Administration: SC 191905-S

Date: 31 July 1944

Historical image showing Sgt. John B. Smith and Lt. Robert Back check records in front of showers for front line troops. of Black American soldiers during WWII

Sgt. John B. Smith and Lt. Robert Back check records in front of showers for front line troops.

Both are members of a Quartermaster fumigation and bath unit. St. Lo, France.

Source: National Archives and Records Administration: SC 192032

Date: 31 July 1944

Historical image showing 828th Amphibious Truck Company of Black American soldiers during WWII

828th Amphibious Truck Company

Soldiers of the 828th Amphibious Truck Company, move to the front in support of 7th Division near Julita, Leyte Island, Philippines.

Source: National Archives and Records Administration: 175739033

Date: 28 October 1944

Historical image showing 3454th Quartermaster Truck Company of Black American soldiers during WWII

3454th Quartermaster Truck Company

A Black soldier helps a Dutch girl get off a Truck. The girls are part of the Dutch population of Roermond, which was temporarily evacuated.

Source: Nationaal Archief: 900-2295

Date: March 1945

Historical image showing 93rd Infantry Division soldiers purify their drinking water of Black American soldiers during WWII

93rd Infantry Division soldiers purify their drinking water

It's "time out" along the Numa-Numa Trail as these members of the 93rd Infantry Division purify water taken from the nearby Laruma River on Bougainville. Left to right: Pfc. Johnny Holley, South Carolina; Pfc. William Jones, New Orleans, Louisiana; Sgt. Dalton Cook, Henderson, Texas; and Sgt. Raymond E. Rollins, Baltimore, Maryland. This is the first time that Black ground troops have been used in combat in South Pacific theater. Bougainville, Solomon Islands.

Source: National Archives: 178140814

Date: 1 May 1944

Historical image showing Lawrence Johnson of Black American soldiers during WWII

Lawrence Johnson

Lawrence Johnson served in the 614th Tank Destroyer Battalion during World War II and this photograph is included in the book "The 614th Tank Destroyer Battalion: Fighting on Both Fronts".

Source: Lawrence Johnson family

Date: 1945

Historical image showing Stafford Rimes of Black American soldiers during WWII

Stafford Rimes

Stafford Rimes served in the 452nd Anti-Aircraft Artillery Battalion and he was killed in action on 21 November 1944. This photograph is included in the book "The 452nd Anti-Aircraft Artillery Battalion: Destroyers of the Luftwaffe and Jim Crow".

Source: Stafford Rimes family

Date: Undated

Historical image showing 761st Tank Battalion of Black American soldiers during WWII

761st Tank Battalion

Members of the 761st Tank Battalion, somewhere in England, make last minute adjustments before leaving to go into action on the continent. Front row (left to right): Sgt. Maxie Henry (Kansas City, MO); Pfc. Judge Favors (Tampa, FL); S/Sgt. Jack Gilbert (Chicago, IL); Pfc. Albert Fulwood (Huntingtown, WV); S/Sgt. John W. Bush (Cincinnati, OH). Rear (left to right): S/Sgt. Elmo Johnson (Topeka, KS); Pfc. Matthew L. Johnson (Homestead, GA); and Sgt. Arthur E. Ritchie (Chickasaw, OK).

Source: National Archives and Records Administration: 175539105

Date: 1 May 1944

Historical image showing Quartermaster Corps soldiers are filling fuel cans of Black American soldiers during WWII

Quartermaster Corps soldiers are filling fuel cans

Fuel cans are filled at the decanting point, part of the fuel pipe line in France, by members of the Quartermaster Corps.

Source: United States Army Heritage and Education Center

Date: 1944

Historical image showing 3535th Quartermaster Truck Company of Black American soldiers during WWII

3535th Quartermaster Truck Company

A Black member of the 3535th Quartermaster Truck Company guides a 2-ton truck to the field grease pit where he stands. This pit was constructed by the 3535th Quartermaster Truck Company while they were on bivouac at Fort Benning, Georgia.

Source: U.S. Army, VIRIN: 440706-A-D0439-010

Date: 6 July 1944

Historical image showing Red Ball Convoy of Black American soldiers during WWII

Red Ball Convoy

A convoy of the Red Ball Express near Alencon, France.

Source: United States Heritage and Education Center

Date: 1 September 1944

Historical image showing Red Ball Express drivers having breakfast of Black American soldiers during WWII

Red Ball Express drivers having breakfast

Drivers of the Red Ball Express are having breakfast near Alencon, France.

Source: United States Heritage and Education Center

Date: 1 September 1944