Click here to view the brief Evening Record article dated July 30, 1918, which reveals in its wording the segregated situation during World War I. By saying “Colored Men”, that meant they were not traveling with the white troops. They would be in separate barracks at Camp Dix and if they went overseas to fight, they could only fight along side French Troops.

All of that was understood when the term “Colored Men” was used in referring to these eight men: Arthur Adams, Wilbur Perry, Shelley Points, William Somerville, Carson T. Wooden, William H. Green Jr., George Richard, and Waverly Wyche. By these men’s honorable service it helped to break down racial barriers for future generations.

Click here to view the Evening Record article dated August 2, 1918, which tells of family and friends having a reception and seeing the men off to Camp Dix at the Anderson Street station.

Let us never forget the soldier’s sacrifice. 

Written by:
Bob Meli
May 18, 2013

Background image of a Recruiting Poster for black soldiers during World War I obtained from:

http://photos.nola.com/tpphotos/2013/11/wwii_propaganda_posters_2.html