Henry Johnson: The First American Hero of World War I

In the #BlackHistoryMonthFinale, host Dominic Lawson tells the inspiring story of Sergeant Henry Johnson, the first American hero of World War I. Johnson was a member of the 369th Infantry Regiment, an all-black unit known as the Harlem Hellfighters, and his bravery and sacrifice in battle helped to establish the United States as a military superpower firmly. Despite facing racism and discrimination at home, Johnson and his fellow soldiers fought courageously for their country and paved the way for future generations of African American soldiers.

Key Points:

• Sergeant Henry Johnson was the first American hero of World War I and a member of the all-black 369th Infantry Regiment, known as the Harlem Hellfighters.
• Johnson's bravery and battle sacrifice helped establish the United States as a military superpower.
• Despite facing racism and discrimination at home, Johnson and his fellow soldiers fought courageously for their country.
• Johnson was posthumously awarded the Medal of Honor in 2015, and efforts are underway to rename a military base in his honor.
• The story of Sergeant Henry Johnson and the Harlem Hellfighters is an important part of African American and United States history.

Show Notes:

• Background on the 369th Infantry Regiment and the Harlem Hellfighters
• Discussion of racism and discrimination faced by African American soldiers during World War I
• Detailed account of Sergeant Henry Johnson's bravery in battle and the many injuries sustained while defending his fellow soldiers
• Discussion of the posthumous honors and awards given to Johnson, including the Medal of Honor and the Purple Heart
• Information on efforts to rename a military base in honor of Johnson and the Harlem Hellfighters
• Analysis of the question of why African Americans continue to fight for a country that does not always love them back
• Quotes from Johnson and other African American leaders
• Conclusion and call to action for listeners to support the Black Is America Podcast and continue learning about important moments in African American history.

Zimmermann Telegram | Facts, Text, & Outcome | Britannica

 

Sources:

• White house.gov
• History.com
• Smithsonian Magazine
• The Department of Defense
• The National Museum of African American History and Culture
• The National Archives
• CSPAN

Website: www.blackisamericapodcast.com