African American Contributions in the Navy

Executive Order 9981, issued by President Truman in 1948, aimed to eliminate discrimination based on race, color, religion, or national origin within the U.S. armed forces.

The USS Oscar Austin is a guided-missile destroyer named after Rear Admiral Oscar Austin, a pioneering African American naval officer.

Master Chief April D. Beldo is a notable example of African Americans breaking barriers in the Navy, achieving the position of Fleet Master Chief.

Master Chief Boatswain's Mate Carl M. Brashear, a pioneering diver, overcame adversity to become the first African American Master Diver in the Navy.

Ensign Jesse Brown became the first African American naval aviator, a testament to his determination and skill.

Wesley A. Brown carved a path for African Americans by becoming the first graduate of the U.S. Naval Academy.

Vice Admiral Samuel L. Gravely Jr. made history as the first African American to hold the rank of Naval Flag Officer.

The Golden Thirteen were the first African Americans to graduate from the U.S. Naval Academy after World War II, setting a landmark in history.

A group of seven African American Sailors who were assigned to the USS Mason, a destroyer that played a significant role in the blockade of the Confederacy during the Civil War. Their service demonstrated the courage and dedication of African Americans in a time of conflict.

A disastrous explosion at a naval ammunition depot that had devastating consequences. It highlighted the dangers faced by African American sailors who were often assigned to hazardous work.

These were African American women who enlisted in the Women Accepted for Volunteer Emergency Service (WAVES) during World War II, breaking gender and racial barriers in the navy.

The experiences of African American sailors in the U.S. Navy during the Civil War, particularly those serving on the Potomac Flotilla. They faced discrimination but also demonstrated great courage and resilience.

African American contributions to the U.S. Navy from its early years to the present day. This includes their service on ships, submarines, and ashore, as well as their roles in times of peace and conflict.

The Navy Art online exhibit that showcases artwork and images that document the evolving roles of African American sailors throughout history, beginning with the Revolutionary War.

A diary written by Michael Shiner, a free Black man, chronicling events at the Washington Navy Yard and the District of Columbia from 1813 to 1869. It includes accounts of the War of 1812, the 1833 abduction of his family by slave dealers, and the strike of 1835.

A book by Kelly Miller detailing the contributions of Black sailors in the US Navy, emphasizing their heroism and dedication to duty.

A directive issued by Admiral Zumwalt in 1970 aimed at eliminating discrimination in the Navy. It emphasized the importance of equal opportunities for all sailors, regardless of race.

The official document that declared the freedom of enslaved people in Confederate states during the Civil War. It also recognized the freedom of any enslaved person seeking to escape and prohibited any actions to prevent their freedom.

A period of rapid growth for the Navy during the start of the Korean War, marked by the increased need for manpower and the integration of Black sailors into the Navy.

The first Black man to become a Navy pilot. He faced significant prejudice and discrimination but persevered to make history.

The first Black woman to be a Navy officer. Her achievement marked a significant step towards gender equality in the Navy.