The Harlem HellFighters

This video was presented during a cocktail reception in honor of the Harlem Hellfighters at the Consulate General of France in New York.

As part of the commemorations of the centenary of the First World War, the Consulate General in New York paid tribute to 369th Infantry Regiment, better known as the “Harlem Hellfighters”, for their engagement in the French armed forces. The role played by these soldiers in the victory of France and its Allies has been presented in an exhibition showcasing documents and archive images (photographs, films) during the Black History Month.
The 369th Regiment, which was the first Afro-American unit of the US Army, valiantly fought during World War I under French command. These soldiers were the first Americans to be awarded the War Cross (“Croix de Guerre”), and many of them were also bestowed the Legion of Honor. They were also among the first ones to introduce a still unknown music to the French audience: jazz!