The Harlem Hellfighters

Who were the Harlem Hellfighters?

• A regiment of New York National Guardsmen in World War II

• A group of African American pilots during the Korean War

• A regiment of New York National Guardsmen in World War I

• A special forces unit during the Vietnam War

What was the ultimate combat achievement of the Harlem Hellfighters?

• They were mixed with white soldiers in the U.S. army - breaking the segregation barrier for the first time.

• They were recognized as one of the most decorated units in the entire US Army.

• They never saw active combat, but instead played support roles.

• They were the only unit to never suffer a casualty.

What was a significant challenge faced by African Americans trying to join the US military during this period?

• Lack of physical fitness requirements.

• A perception that they would not perform well in battle.

• Limited access to recruitment offices.

• Strict age restrictions for enlistment.

What type of duties were African American units often assigned when first sent overseas?

• Front-line combat roles.

• Intelligence gathering and espionage.

• Labor duties like unloading ships and building trenches.

• Naval operations and submarine warfare.

Why were the Harlem Hellfighters eventually transferred to the French army?

• The French army specifically requested their unique combat skills.

• The US military wanted to test their effectiveness under foreign command.

• General Pershing refused to integrate them into American forces, offering them to the French.

• They volunteered to fight alongside the French due to shared cultural ties.

What was Henry Johnson's primary weapon when his rifle jammed during the German attack?

• A pistol

• A bayonet

• A knife

• A shovel

What was the US government's reaction to the Harlem Hellfighters' success in combat?

• They immediately awarded them full military honors.

• They sent a memorandum to the French, discouraging them from treating Black soldiers as equals.

• They launched a nationwide campaign celebrating their achievements.

• They began integrating all military units immediately.

How were Henry Johnson and the other Harlem Hellfighters treated in the U.S. after their heroic service in WWI?

• They were celebrated and honored with parades across the country.
• They received full benefits and recognition for their bravery.
• They were treated with discrimination and largely ignored by the U.S. after their service.
• They were welcomed back as heroes and given prominent roles.