Black History Month is a time to celebrate our achievements and contributions of our people throughout history. One of those great people of our past is Benjamin O. Davis, Sr.
Born in Washington, D.C. in 1877, Davis was the first African American to graduate from the United States Military Academy at West Point. Despite facing discrimination and segregation, he went on to have a long and illustrious military career including 11 medal awards from the US military.
Davis served in both World War I and World War II, and was promoted to the rank of Brigadier General in 1940, becoming one of the first African American generals in the U.S. Army. Throughout his career, he consistently faced racism and prejudice, but he persevered, paving the way for future generations of African Americans in the military.
In addition to his military service, Davis was a vocal advocate for civil rights, speaking out against racial segregation in the armed forces and advocating for the integration of African Americans into all aspects of military life.
On July 20, 1948, after fifty years of military service, Davis retired in a public ceremony with President Harry S. Truman presiding. Six days later on July 26, 1948, President Truman issued Executive Order 9981 which abolished racial discrimination in the United States armed forces. His legacy lived on through his son, Benjamin O. Davis, Jr., who also went on to have a successful military career and eventually became a general as well.
As we celebrate Black History Month, it is important to remember great people like Benjamin O. Davis, Sr. who paved the way for future generations to go further. Despite the obstacles he faced, he rose to the top of his profession and made a lasting impact on both the military and the civil rights movement. His courage and determination serve as a reminder of what can be achieved when we stand up for what is right, no matter the odds.
Thank You For Your Service
Sources: https://www.oprahdaily.com/life/g25954127/african-american-historical-figures/
https://www.blackpast.org/african-american-history/davis-sr-benjamin-o-1877-1970-2/
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Benjamin_O._Davis_Sr.
https://history.army.mil/html/topics/afam/davis.html