Honoring Black American World War II Veterans
Through my research into Black American units during the Second World War, I have had the privilege of meeting veterans and connecting with descendants who have generously shared photographs, letters, and family memories. This page serves as a growing record of the men who served, whether I have a full profile for them or simply a name from a muster roll.
Every name matters. Descendants frequently search for their family members by name, and having those names documented here helps ensure their sacrifices are not forgotten. Currently this page documents 5 veterans across 2 units, and it continues to grow.
Veterans I Met Personally
Through my research I have been fortunate enough to meet several Black American veterans in person. Their willingness to share their stories has been invaluable to preserving this history.
Samuel de Korte
Dr. Arlester Brown
599th Quartermaster Laundry Battalion
Dr. Arlester Brown served in the 599th Quartermaster Laundry Battalion, providing critical logistical support during World War II. As he put it himself: "I'm just glad we won the war."
Samuel de Korte
Louis Brown
4036th Quartermaster Truck Company
Louis Brown was part of the 4036th Quartermaster Truck Company, ensuring vital supplies reached the frontlines throughout the European Theater.
614th Tank Destroyer Battalion
The 614th Tank Destroyer Battalion was activated on 25 July 1942 at Camp Carson and served in France, Germany, and Austria. A platoon of the 614th earned the Distinguished Unit Citation for their actions near Climbach, France. The unit fought alongside the 103rd Infantry Division and was one of the few tank destroyer battalions crewed entirely by Black soldiers.
Learn more about this unit in my book!
Courtesy of Lawrence Johnson family
Lawrence Johnson
614th Tank Destroyer Battalion
Lawrence Johnson served in the 614th Tank Destroyer Battalion. His photograph is included in the book "The 614th Tank Destroyer Battalion: Fighting on Both Fronts".
Courtesy of David Leitao family
David Leitao
614th Tank Destroyer Battalion
David Leitao served in the 614th Tank Destroyer Battalion. His daughter reached out to share his story and photograph. Note: his name was misspelled as 'Leatio' in the original publication, the correct spelling is Leitao.
452nd Anti-Aircraft Artillery Battalion
The 452nd Anti-Aircraft Artillery Battalion deployed in England in November 1943 and went ashore in Normandy in June 1944. Assigned to XII Corps of General Patton's Third Army, the battalion was credited with shooting down nearly 68 hostile aircraft, one of the highest tallies among AAA units in Europe. Their motto was 'We Guard the Skyways'.
Learn more about this unit in my book!
Courtesy of Stafford Rimes family
Stafford RimesKIA
452nd Anti-Aircraft Artillery Battalion
Stafford Rimes served in the 452nd Anti-Aircraft Artillery Battalion and was killed in action on 21 November 1944. His photograph is included in the book "The 452nd Anti-Aircraft Artillery Battalion: Destroyers of the Luftwaffe and Jim Crow".