African-Americans (of course there was no such politically correct term at this time) served in large numbers during World War I, though racism within the armed forces meant that blacks were eligible to serve only in segregated units.
At the peak of its strength the AEF included some 350,000 African-Americans, most of whom were relegated to support units. African-
American soldiers of the 92nd and 93rd infantry divisions saw combat on the Western Front in 1918, mostly under French command.
Several units of these divisions served with great distinction, including the 369th Infantry (formerly the 15th New York Infantry), known as the "Harlem Hell Fighters", and the 371st Infantry whose ranks included Corporal Freddie Stowers – the only African-American to receive the Congressional Medal of Honor in World War I.
That's true courage. To fight for the right when you likely be told that you aren't as good as others who are also fighting.
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