The recent article about France’s remembrance of American Black Soldiers who fought Germany on their side during World War I in eastern France was heartbreaking (“France remembers Black soldiers’ WWI sacrifice,” March 7).
Born and raised in Europe, I visited World War I cemeteries in France, unaware of this one. Here brave Black soldiers of the segregated U.S. army gave their lives during 191 days of cruel combat. The Germans they fought named them respectfully, “Höllenkämpfer,” translated “Hellfighters.”
It is painful and infuriating that the U.S. Army took a century to acknowledge the 369th Infantry Regiment’s accomplishments. France awarded them the highest honor: “Croix de Guerre” (Military Cross) for their bravery and heroism.
Contributions made by American Black soldiers during the world wars and Vietnam exposed discrimination they endured while fighting for their country and liberties that they never enjoyed. Shameful and heartbreaking.
Patton’s Army in France had a “Black” division, the “761 Tank Battalion.” They helped liberate 30 towns under Nazi control and spent 183 days in combat. The “Tuskegee Airmen,” an all Black fighter pilot group escorted bombers over Italy, flying 1600 sorties, destroying 274 German aircraft. Foreigners honored them, but not their country. I am a white woman and I am ashamed.
Maria Roberts, Park City
