By: Spencer HotzAdd to Contacts
Ivan J. Houston was a member of the 92nd infantry division during World War II, an all-African-American division tasked with missions their superior officers thought they couldn't handle. Now he shares the struggles and triumphs of this powerful unit in “Black Soldiers: The Buffalo Soldiers of World War II.”
“Buffalo soldiers was the name given to the Negro cavalry of the U.S. army by Native Americans in the 1800s,” Houston said. “These units were originally seen as inferior, but made an undeniable impact on American history. That’s exactly what happened with us while we were in Italy between 1944 and 1945.”
Houston, who received a bronze star and purple heart, helped record events in the official battalion journal throughout his time in the military as he and his companions battled to help liberate Italy. Much of the army high command did not have faith in these units, but Houston’s regiment managed to single-handedly liberate the town of Lucca in Italy.
The people of Lucca are so appreciative of the Black Warriors who saved them that today they host celebrations in their honor, including reenactments. The cities gratitude and continued interaction with these veterans even inspired a documentary from the Pacific Films Foundation.
“My family and I regularly visit Lucca,” Houston said. “The love they share with us is so powerful that I feel at home when I am there.”
Learn more about the Black Warriors Book:
http://www.blackwarriorsbook.com
Posted By: How May I Help You NC
Wednesday, October 22nd 2014 at 1:24PM
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