There will be ten bas-reliefs installed in Gourdin Memorial Park to reflect the wars fought by or in the United States, and which have included African American men and women. For each bas-relief, we found a quote from a notable public figure about the African American veterans who served during a particular war. Below, we tried to capture the bas-reliefs with quotes.
…they were volunteers … and ought to be considered in the same light as any other Sailors, by no means liable to be sold merely because they are black ….
Captain John Clouston, Massachusetts Navy Brigantine Freedom Fighter
Previous to the formation of the colored troops, I had a strong inclination to prepare myself for the ministry; but when the country called for all persons, I could best serve my God by serving my country and my oppressed brothers.
William H. Carney, Sergeant Co. C, 54th Mass Vols. and Recipient of the Congressional Medal of Honor
“If the government wants our support and services, let us demand and get a guarantee for our safety and protection at home …..When we are guaranteed freedom and equality before the law, as other American citizens, then we will have the right, as such, to take up arms in defense of our country.”
The Indianapolis Freeman, March 18, 1898
All soldiers of the six all-black regiments serving in the Philippines came from every state in the union
William Mary, Reves Center
We return. We return from fighting. We return fighting.
W.E.B. Dubois
It saddens me that here were so many Negro soldiers in that war whose bravery will never be known or recognized. Many died, many had their lives shattered, and they were all heroes.
Senator Edward W. Brooke
Many Boston citizens will never forget … when the 272nd proudly paraded down Columbus Avenue and Tremont Street on their way to North Station for their trip to Camp McCoy….
Ralph F. Browne, Jr., Korean War Veteran, Former Aide de Camp to General Edward O. Gourdin. Founder of Edward O. Gourdin Veterans Park
When I first arrived in Vietnam … there were some interesting things that happened…. I was made to realize that this is war, and this is what we do. And it stuck in my head. This is war. This is what we do.
Dr. Roger Harris, Marine, I Corps, near DMZ, 1967
The military has issues, just like the rest of society…. But it has real deep brotherhood, and sisterhood, too.
Orville Richard Burrell, Field Artillery Cannon Crewman, Artillery Battery, 10th Marine Regiment
The War in Iraq, 2003 – 2011
And in the face of ancient divisions, you stood firm to help those Iraqis who put their faith in the future.
President Barack Obama
