On Sept. 3, U.S. Representative George Latimer was joined by local and state officials, servicemembers, and family members and descendants of the Harlem Hellfighters for a wreath laying ceremony at the Tomb of the Unknown Solider. The wreath laying was held to honor the Hellfighters, who received the Congressional Gold Medal earlier today in a ceremony at the U.S. Capitol.
“As a proud son of Mount Vernon, it is my honor to recognize the service and achievements of 22 fellow sons of Mount Vernon who answered the call to serve during World War I,” said Rep. Latimer. “These brave men are finally receiving overdue recognition of their extraordinary valor, unwavering service and critical place in our country’s history. It is too late for them to see it, but I know their families and descendants here today cherish this honor and will carry on their legacy.”
Simultaneously, the City of Mount Vernon and Mayor Shawyn Patterson-Howard held a wreath laying ceremony at the “Warriors Way” in Brush Park.
“Today we honor the Harlem Hellfighters, brave African American soldiers who left Mount Vernon and communities across New York to fight for democracy abroad, even as they faced injustice at home. Their courage and sacrifice helped shape history, and this Congressional Gold Medal ensures their place will never be forgotten. Mount Vernon is proud to have been home to men who served in this legendary regiment, and we will continue to honor their legacy of service, sacrifice, and the unyielding pursuit of equality,” said Mayor Patterson-Howard.
The 369th Infantry Regiment, commonly referred to as the Harlem Hellfighters, was an infantry regiment of the New York Army National Guard during World Wars I and II. The regiment contained mostly Black Americans and is known for being one of the first African-American regiments to serve with the American Expeditionary Forces in WWI. The regiment fought alongside French forces and spent almost 200 days in the front-line trenches, more than any other American unit and suffered the most losses of any American regiment, with close to 1,500 losing their lives. The City of Mount Vernon produced 22 Harlem Hellfighters.
Today the descendants of these brave men were presented with the Congressional Gold Medal, the highest civilian award Congress can bestow.
This morning Rep. Latimer recognized the service of the Harlem Hellfighters on the House floor. That speech can be watched here.
