The legendary Harlem Hellfighters began as the 15th New York National Guard Regiment, an African-American National Guard unit formed in New York City.
According to Wikipedia and Empire State Plaza, the regiment was later reorganized in federal service as the 369th Infantry Regiment—one of the first all-Black combat units to serve in World War I.
Many of its men hailed from Harlem and across New York State, embodying the pride and ambition of a community that would soon power the Harlem Renaissance. The National Museum of African American History and Culture notes that these men sought not just to serve, but to prove that patriotism and excellence knew no color.
When America entered WWI, the 369th found itself confronting prejudice before it ever faced an enemy.
As The Doughboy Foundation explains, U.S. command refused to integrate Black combat troops with white units, forcing the 369th to serve under French command.
Service in World War I
Despite this, the regiment distinguished itself in battle. The Hellfighters spent 191 days in frontline trenches, longer than any other American unit of its size. They fought fiercely in the Champagne-Marne, Aisne-Marne, and Meuse-Argonne offensives, earning the respect of their French allies and fear from the Germans, who dubbed them “Hellfighters.”
The entire regiment later received the French Croix de Guerre, with many soldiers individually honored.
“They spent 191 days on the frontlines—more than any other American unit of similar size.” — American Battle Monuments Commission
Facing Discrimination
Back home, the cheers faded into the familiar sting of segregation.
As Smithsonian Magazine reports, the same heroes who defended freedom abroad were denied equality at home. They were even barred from marching in New York’s farewell parade for white Guard units before deployment (NMAAHC).
Their service exposed America’s racial contradictions—men willing to die for a flag that refused to salute them back.
Legacy and Impact
Their February 1919 homecoming parade through Harlem was historic. Streets overflowed with pride as thousands celebrated the regiment that had defied both enemies and prejudice (NMAAHC).
Today, their spirit endures through the 369th Sustainment Brigade of the New York Army National Guard (Military.com).
As EBSCO notes, the Harlem Hellfighters’ courage helped pave the way for integration in the U.S. armed forces and became a touchstone of African-American military heritage.
(Image alt text: Members of the 369th Sustainment Brigade honor their WWI legacy in modern uniforms.)
“Their story is not just about war—it’s about breaking barriers, demanding dignity, and defining heroism on their own terms.” — Independent Rob, BPN