Military Service
Armed for Glory
Following the Emancipation Proclamation, the military formed the United States Colored Troops. By the end of the war, more than 186,000 African Americans joined the U.S. armed forces. Of these, an estimated 93,542 black soldiers were former slaves who understood firsthand the nation’s fight for freedom. Even as black soldiers fought and died, their citizenship status remained uncertain. Racist policies limited opportunities for black soldiers to become line officers and paid them lower wages than whites.
Officer's Commission
As one of roughly 110 African American officers to serve in the Civil War, 1st Lt. Richard Andrews participated in the battles of Pierson Farm, Petersburg, and Chapin’s Farm in Virginia. He was promoted to captain on October 21, 1864, before being severely wounded in battle.
National Museum of African American History and Culture
Butler Medal
After the Battle of New Market Heights, Gen. Benjamin F. Butler commissioned a medal of honor to be awarded to African American soldiers for bravery. Officially known as Army of the James Medals, these are the only U.S. medals designed specifically for African American troops.
National Museum of African American History and Culture, Gift of the Family of Irving and Estelle Liss