Honoring History: First Black Army Officers Commemorated in Des Moines

255 E. Army Post Road, Des Moines, Iowa, USA - In a significant recognition of history, Fort Des Moines is set to unveil a historical marker on June 14, 2025, honoring its role as the first training center for Black officers in the U.S. Army during World War I. This groundbreaking initiative commemorates the trials and triumphs of 1,200 African Americans who trained there in 1917, many of whom went on to serve as officers in the war. The ceremony, which is free and open to the public, will take place at the Fort Des Moines Museum at 1 p.m. and is expected to draw a crowd of veterans and community members alike, including Des Moines Mayor Connie Boesen, as reported by Des Moines Register.

Retired Army veteran Don North has been instrumental in bringing this marker to fruition. His deep-seated passion for African American military history inspired him to pursue this project, which received support from the State Historical Society of Iowa in August 2024 for $10,000. North emphasizes the importance of these officers, drawing parallels between their contributions and those of the famed Tuskegee Airmen. He notes that before 1917, the U.S. Army refused to recruit Black officer candidates, reflecting racial prejudices that undercut their capabilities.

A Legacy of Training

The Provisional Army Officer Training School at Fort Des Moines, inaugurated on June 17, 1917, stood as a beacon of hope for aspiring Black leaders, graduating 639 men by October 15 of that year. This diverse group included 106 captains and well over 500 other officers, setting a precedent in military training that challenged prevailing views. As highlighted by Iowa Public Radio, these men faced extraordinary challenges, frequently serving under the shadows of racial discrimination and societal skepticism.

Despite their achievements, the officers were often relegated to commanding only Black troops, and many returned home without the recognition they deserved. Researcher Keith King comments on the historical significance of these officers, asserting their vital role in laying the groundwork for the Civil Rights Movement in America. The legacy of Fort Des Moines extends beyond just military training; it’s a testament to resilience and the fight for equality.

Women’s Contributions at Fort Des Moines

Fort Des Moines didn’t stop at military training for men. The Women’s Army Auxiliary Corps was also established there during World War II, cultivating notable Black women leaders such as Charity Adams and Hariett Waddy. Both made significant strides in their military careers, with Adams becoming one of the first Black women to attain the rank of lieutenant colonel. Their dedication to service amid segregation highlights another layer of Fort Des Moines’s rich history of breaking barriers.

Emerging from this complex history, the historical marker aims to educate future generations about the sacrifices and contributions of Black Americans during wartime, ensuring their narratives are woven into the broader tapestry of American history. As the event approaches, there’s a sense of pride among those involved, and the hope that this recognition will not only honor past warriors but also inspire present and future generations.

With the eyes of the community looking on, the ceremony is more than just an unveiling; it’s a celebration of resilience, dedication, and the unwavering spirit of those who fought not just on battlefields but also against the prejudice of their time, as encapsulated perfectly by National Park Service insights.