From Loyalty to Personal Courage, see how Soldiers in the U.S. Army live the Seven Core Values every day.
Two Black Army sergeants, Cornelius H. Charlton and William Thompson, were among the 131 Medal of Honor recipients.
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Our country's history is a record of heroes and events
to be remembered with respect and honor. The Medal of Honor is the highest
award given to the greatest of our military heroes for their actions
that have helped form our nation's rich history. They are honored for
their acts of heroism, for their "individual gallantry at the risk
of life above and beyond the call of duty."
The Medal of Honor is symbolic of the heroic acts that it is awarded
for. Elements of the design represent victory, strength, wisdom and valor.
Throughout history, 88 African-American service members have distinguished
themselves with their gallant actions during wartime. Read the military
citations of some of these outstanding American heroes.
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Civil
War
In 1862, Congress revoked the militia laws banning blacks
from serving in the Union Army. Sixteen African-American Soldiers
were awarded the Medal of Honor for their actions during the Civil
War.
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Indian
Campaigns
Serving the nation in the Indian wars, black units earned
the respect of the Native Americans and the nation. During the Indian
Campaigns, 18 African-American Soldiers were awarded the Medal of
Honor.
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Spanish
American War
For the first time, black troops were sent to serve outside United
States territory. Following the Spanish American War, five African-American
Soldiers were awarded the Medal of Honor.
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World
War I
Despite discrimination and segregated units, African-Americans
proved their valor and patriotism to the nation. During World War
I, only one African-American Soldier was awarded the Medal of Honor.
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World
War II
It is estimated that three fourths of African Americans
served in the Army knowing the freedom to serve the country did not
mean freedom to participate fully. Seven African-American Soldiers
were awarded the Medal of Honor for their service during World War
II.
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Korean
War
The Korean War was the turning point in the acceptance
of African-American Soldiers. For their service during the Korean
War, two African-American Soldiers were awarded the Medal of Honor.
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Vietnam
War
By the time of the Vietnam War, African-American Soldiers
were fully integrated into all aspects of the Army. During the Vietnam
War, 15 African-American Soldiers were awarded the Medal of Honor.
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