The political, economic and social landscapes of the United States in the early 1940s were split by one overriding factor--race. This volume explores the ways in which this separation extended to the military forces and the impact which that segregation had on World War II. The book begins with an overview of African Americans and the military from the inception of our country and a brief exploration of the African American role in World War I. The focus then moves to between-the-wars movements such as the Protective Mobilization Plan, which promoted the racial integration of the military. The main focus of the work, however, is the African American role in World War II and the second-class stigma which remained in spite of the proven valor and bravery of colored units. Groups discussed include the Women's Army Corps; tank destroyers; separate infantry regiments such as the 24th, 65th, 364th, 366th and 372nd; and the 2nd cavalry. Also included is a list of African American World War II veterans belatedly (and, for the most part, posthumously) awarded medals of honor on January 13, 1997.