On Juneteenth We Honor Black Service Members Who’ve Played Invaluable Roles in the U.s. Military Since the American Revolutionary War
Juneteenth is the celebration of emancipation following the U.S. Civil War. U.S. Army General Gordon Granger proclaimed the end of slavery in Texas at Galveston on June 19, 1865. All cultures can celebrate Juneteenth by embracing its spirit of freedom and equality, recognizing the historical significance of the day, and acknowledging the contributions of African Americans to the nation’s progress. Through education, community events, and cultural exchanges, people from diverse backgrounds can unite to honor the journey toward justice and liberty for all.
Honoring Black service members on Juneteenth is important as it recognizes their significant contributions and sacrifices in the U.S. military, which have often been overlooked. Since the American Revolutionary War, Black service members have played crucial roles in defending and shaping the nation, despite facing discrimination and unequal treatment. Acknowledging their service on Juneteenth highlights their enduring legacy and reinforces the broader significance of the day in celebrating freedom and equality.
As we celebrate Freedom Day, we honor the hard-won freedoms and the courageous individuals who fought for them. Black Women Led the Charge as WAVES Naval Officers in World War II. During World War II, women faced numerous challenges to serve in the U.S. Armed Forces, with Black women facing even greater obstacles. Despite the enactment of Public Law 689 in 1942, which allowed women to join the Naval Reserve force known as Women Accepted for Volunteer Emergency Service (WAVES), African American women were initially excluded. The NAACP persistently advocated for their inclusion, and in 1944, President Franklin D. Roosevelt authorized Black women to join WAVES. Unlike their male counterparts, these women were fully integrated into the branch.
Harriet Pickens and Frances Wills Endured Significant Prejudice
Harriet Pickens and Frances Wills, both highly educated and diligent, quickly began their training at the Naval Reserve Midshipmen’s School at Smith College in Northampton, Massachusetts. On December 26, 1944, they graduated, becoming the first African American female officers in the U.S. Navy. Despite facing significant racism and prejudice, they served throughout the remainder of the war.
Peter Salem, a Soldier of the American Revolutionary War
Peter Salem, born into slavery in 18th-century Massachusetts, joined the Patriot cause during the American Revolutionary War. He served with the minutemen, an elite, quickly-assembled force, and fought at the Battle of Lexington and Concord. After General George Washington declared that enslaved people couldn’t join the militia, Salem’s slaveholders freed him so he could continue serving as a free man. Salem then fought at the Battle of Bunker Hill, where he is credited with killing a key British officer, Major John Pitcairn, which bolstered the Patriots’ resolve despite their loss. Salem’s significant role is thought to be depicted in John Trumbull’s 1786 painting, “The Death of General Warren at the Battle of Bunker’s Hill.”
Although initially awarded the Distinguished Service Cross, Baker did not receive the Medal of Honor at the time. It was only over 50 years later that Baker and other Black WWII service members were recognized with this highest military honor.
Alwyn C. Cashe Risked Everything for the Lives of His Soldiers
In 2005 in Iraq, Sgt. 1st Class Alwyn C. Cashe repeatedly entered a burning vehicle under enemy fire to rescue trapped soldiers. His fuel-soaked uniform caught fire, causing severe burns, but he continued saving soldiers and refused medical evacuation until all others were safe. Later in the hospital, when Cashe regained consciousness, his first words were, “How are my boys?” Cashe died three weeks later and was posthumously awarded the Silver Star. On December 16, 2021, after a long campaign for recognition, President Joe Biden awarded him the Medal of Honor, making Cashe the first Black recipient of this medal for actions in Iraq and Afghanistan since 9/11.
Juneteenth is more than a celebration of emancipation; it is a day to honor the legacy of freedom fighters who have shaped the United States. By recognizing the significant contributions and sacrifices of Black service members like Peter Salem, Alwyn C. Cashe, Harriet Pickens and Frances Willis. We pay tribute to their enduring impact on our nation’s history and acknowledge the ongoing journey toward justice and liberty for all.
