Congresswoman Corrine Brown called into Community Connection updating us on what she's been doing in Washington. Her most recent accomplishment is definitely one for the books. In November 2011 Brown drafted a bill in honor of the Montford Point Marines to receive the Congressional Gold Medal, one of the highest civilian awards presented. After a unanimous bipartisan agreement, these unsung heroes will finally be recognized.

During World War II, at the behest of A.Phillip Randolph [African American Civic Leader], President Roosevelt issued Executive Order 8802 banning discrimination in the defense industry. As a result, many African American men enlisted into the service eager for new opportunities.

Met with segregation and isolation, black soldiers were trained at Montford Point while white soldiers were trained at Camp Lejune, each only separated by railroad tracks.  Despite strong restrictions on base, the Montford Point Marines excelled and even contributed to the Battle at Iwogima.

In 1948 when President Truman declaredExecutive Order 9981, which demanded equal treatment across the board, the Marines [the last branch to desegregate] eventually disbanded Montford Point in Jacksonville, NC and allowed for fully integrated training camps.

Their service will never be forgotten,  and on Wednesday, June 27th nearly 500 heroes will converge on the Capitol to meet President Obama and receive their thanks.

For more information on the Montford Point Marines visit www.montfordpointmarines.com

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