Montford Point Marines honored in historic ceremony

In a heartfelt ceremony held at Camp Gilbert H. Johnson, formerly known as Morford Point Camp, the achievements of approximately 20,000 Montford Point Marines were honored during the 15th Annual Montford Point Marine Day. This event recognized the significant contributions of the first African Americans to serve in the U.S. Marine Corps, who not only fought overseas but also battled racism and segregation at home.

Colonel Ralph J. Rizzo, Commander of Marine Corps Installations East, delivered a moving address, emphasizing the legacy of these trailblazing Marines. He acknowledged the presence of distinguished guests, including retired Ambassador Theodore R. Britton Jr. and members of the National Montford Point Marine Association, highlighting their ongoing efforts to preserve the history and honor the sacrifices of these veterans.

The ceremony included the posthumous awarding of Congressional Gold Medals to 30 Montford Point Marines, whose names and stories were previously unrecorded. Colonel Rizzo noted that this recognition serves as a long-overdue accountability for their service and sacrifices, ensuring that their contributions are formally acknowledged in the annals of military history.

Rizzo urged the families of the Montford Point Marines to continue sharing their stories with future generations, reinforcing the importance of their legacy within the Marine Corps. The event concluded with a call to honor the memory of these heroes, ensuring that their fight for equality and justice remains an integral part of the Marine Corps' narrative.