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World War II
Episode108

April 17, 2023

Desegregation Begins: The Road to Montford Point

Desegregation Begins: The Road to Montford Point
27:11
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When you trace the path of desegregation in the Marine Corps, you're looking at a journey defined by extraordinary resilience and relentless courage. From John Martin's pioneering role in the Revolutionary War to the tragic exclusion policies enacted by Congress in 1792, this history mirrors America's ongoing struggle with race and equality. Today's episode takes us through centuries of barriers and breakthroughs, revealing how prejudice shaped policy, yet never extinguished the courage of those determined to serve.

References

  1. Department of Defense. (2018, May 6). Medical Standards for Military Service: Appointment, Enlistment, or Induction (DOD Directive 6130.03).
  2. Dunn, L. C. (1949). The U. S. Navy’s First Seagoing Marine Officer. U.S. Naval Institute, 75/8/558. https://www.usni.org/magazines/proceedings/1949/august/u-s-navys-first-seagoing-marine-officer
  3. Emancipation Proclamation, January 1, 1863
  4. Executive Order 8802 Dated June 25, 1941, in which President Franklin D. Roosevelt Prohibits Discrimination in the Defense Program
  5. Fortitudine. (2012). 37(2).
  6. Holcomb, T. (1943, March) Letter of Instruction 421
  7. H.R.2965 - 111th Congress (2009-2010): Don't Ask, Don't Tell Repeal Act of 2010. (2010, December 22). https://www.congress.gov/bill/111th-congress/house-bill/2965
  8. McHenry, J. (1797, April 7). Regarding the transmittal of government rules and regulations respecting the recruiting service.
  9. Militia Act of 1792, May 2, 1792
  10. Pay Roll of Captain Robert Mullen’s Company marines to December 1st 1776
  11. Shaw, Henry I., Jr.; Donnelly, Ralph W. (2002). "Blacks in the Marine Corps". Washington, DC: History and Museums Division, Headquarters USMC.
  12. Smith, C. R. (1975). Marines in the Revolution: A History of the Continental Marines in the American Revolution, 1775-1783. United States: History and Museums Division, Headquarters, U.S. Marine Corps.

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