XBradTC

By

XBradTC

·

African Americans in the Navy in World War II

This propaganda film, made immediately after the end of the war, talks up the opportunities for African Americans in the Navy. It's a bit deceiving, however. While it shows a DE that was primarily manned by an African American crew, the fact is, the USS Mason and one PC patrol craft were the only ships…

This propaganda film, made immediately after the end of the war, talks up the opportunities for African Americans in the Navy. It's a bit deceiving, however. While it shows a DE that was primarily manned by an African American crew, the fact is, the USS Mason and one PC patrol craft were the only ships thus manned. For the most part, African Americans were restricted to serving as mess stewards and stevedores. 

On the other hand, it does rightly showcase sailors recognized for their valor, such as Doris Miller and Leonard Roy Harmon, who, in addition to a posthumous Navy Cross, was the first black sailor to have a Navy ship named after him. 

Mostly, it's just an interesting look at the way things were. 

 

 

Tags:

Responses to “African Americans in the Navy in World War II”

  1. Paul L. Quandt

    In some ways we’ve come a long way from there; some people are trying to destroy what has been achieved. Those who wish the best for our nation must work to continue to advance the goals of our nation’s people.
    Thanks for the post.
    Paul L. Quandt

    Like

  2. John in Philly

    Well worth watching, thank you.

    Like

  3. jack burton

    My father-in-law was a Filipino steward in the US Navy from 1928 to 1948. It was all he could be. His two granddaughters just graduated from the Air Force Academy and are now proudly serving their country as Air Force officers on active duty.

    Like

  4. SFC Dunlap 173d RVN

    If only.

    Like

Leave a comment