American Legion honors Black History Month

American Legion honors Black History Month

In recognition of February as Black History Month, The American Legion is proud of the many African-Americans who continue their service through membership in The American Legion, as well as hold leadership positions at the post, district, state and national level. The following are a few American Legion posts that honor the military service of African-Americans.

Sergeant William F. Earnest Post 559 in Champaign, Ill. 
Sgt. William F. Earnest was the first African-American from Champaign County to die in World War I. William’s older brother, Robert, helped charter the post.

Warren-Hawkins Inc. Post 523 in Milledgeville, Ga.
This post is named after two local World War II veterans, 2nd Lt. Cleveland A. Warren and Pvt. Adam Hawkins. Milledgeville is home to two World War I monuments dedicated to African-American soldiers.

William E. Carter Post 16 in Boston.
The first chartered African-American post in Massachusetts founded by World War I veterans of the famed 372nd Infantry that served in France with the Red Hand brigade.