There are so many stories from American history that, while not centered solely in Atlanta, have connections to this city. This week, I sharing the story of the U.S. Marine Corps first Black Marines, from the lens of those that enlisted in Atlanta. A dozen Black Marines served in the Revolutionary War, but from 1798 until 1942, enrollment in the corps was denied to Black men. 

In May of 1942, the Secretary of the Navy announced plans for the recruitment of 900 Black Marines to begin in June of that year. In Atlanta, any Black man, between the ages of 17 and 29 who wanted to enlist went to the second floor of the Rialto Theater. Of the first 6 Georgians to enlist, 5 lived in Atlanta.

Montford Point Marines Chapter 5

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