Army recognizes African American/Black History Month
Keep an eye on digital signs, posters, and noontime movie viewings this month for an important selection of African American achievements and contributions in military and civilian ranks. February is African American/Black History Month, a time during which we honor the many contributions made by African Americans, to include --
Sergeant Major, Christian Fleetwood 4th U.S. Colored Infantry
29 September 1864: At the Battle of Chaffin’s Farm, Fleetwood saved the colors after they fell twice under heavy enemy fire. He safely brought the colors off of the field of battle.
Sergeant Major Edward L. Baker, Jr., 10th U.S. Cavalry
1 July 1898: At Santiago, Cuba, Baker left cover while being fired upon and saved a Soldier from drowning.
First Lieutenant Charles L. Thomas, 614th Tank Destroyer Battalion
14 December 1944: Near Climbach, France, Thomas assisted the crew of his armored scout car to safety. While ordering men into position, he was wounded multiple times in the chest, legs, and left arm.
Sergeant Cornelius H. Charlton, 25th Infantry Division
2 June 1951: Near Chipo-ri, Korea, he took command of his platoon and led numerous charges against an entrenched enemy. Although severely wounded, he charged the last position alone, disabling it. He died of his wounds.
First Lieutenant John E. Warren, Jr., 25th Infantry Division
14 January 1969: In Tay Ninh Province, Vietnam, Warren died while shielding his men from an enemy grenade.
In 2013, the Army commemorates the anniversary of two important events that changed the course of this nation.
On Jan. 1, 1863, the Emancipation Proclamation set the United States on the path of ending slavery. A century later on August 28, 1963, hundreds of thousands of Americans of every creed, color and background marched on Washington, DC in the continuing pursuit of equality. They gathered at the memorial of Abraham Lincoln, the author of the Emancipation Proclamation, where Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. delivered his celebrated "I Have a Dream" speech.
These events gave hope to the black community that change was possible. The Army story is part of the larger story of the American experience and the fight for freedom and equality for all citizens and for this great country. Over the past 237 years, African Americans have selflessly served in the Army, fighting valiantly to help secure peace for the future. Their example of courage and leadership has empowered generations of Soldiers to answer the call to duty in defense of the American way of life. The Army has long recognized the tremendous impact of uniting as brothers and sisters in arms to achieve success, and the importance of taking pause to recognize fellow Soldiers, civilians, and their families in this shared endeavor.
During African American History Month, the Army will highlight African American military and civil service at all levels, and recognize that the Army draws strength from the rich diversity within the military and civilian ranks.
The U.S. Army War College and local and state officials will congratulate middle school students from eight Carlisle area schools during an award ceremony recognizing Black History month at 11:30 a.m. Feb. 21 at the Carlisle barracks.
Top essay writers in sixth, seventh and eighth grades will be recognized during the event set to take place in Bliss Hall.
State Rep. Stephn Bloom, R-Carlisle, will join Cumberland County Commissioner Barbara Cross, Carlisle Mayor Wiliam “Doc” Kronenberg, and Army War College leadership in recognizing the students.
Schools participating in the ceremony include:
- Wilson Middle School,
- Lamberton Middle School,
- Saint Patrick School,
- Big Springs Middle School,
- Mechanicsburg Middle School,
- Eagle View Middle School,
- Good Hope Middle School,
- Yellow Breeches Middle School.