Medal of Honor: Stories of Courage The Never-ending Battle of Henry Johnson
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Jul 3, 2024 
Meet Henry Johnson, a heroic Harlem Hellfighter from World War I awarded the French Croix de Guerre for stopping an enemy force alone. Discover his forgotten story and the struggles he faced on and off the battlefield. Learn about the discrimination black soldiers faced during that time and Henry's journey to finally receiving the Medal of Honor in 2015.
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Henry Johnson's Heroism
- Henry Johnson, a Harlem Hellfighter, became a WWI hero after single-handedly fighting off a German raiding party.
- Despite severe injuries, he saved a fellow soldier and received the French Croix de Guerre, becoming famous back home.
The Harlem Hellfighters' Motivation
- The Harlem Hellfighters, an all-Black regiment, faced discrimination and were initially given menial tasks instead of combat roles.
- Their desire to fight stemmed from patriotism and a belief that proving themselves in battle would advance their fight for equality.
Henry Johnson's Determination
- Henry Johnson, a small but determined soldier, joined the army seeking opportunity and a chance to serve.
- Despite being initially relegated to manual labor due to racial prejudice, Johnson and the Hellfighters eventually joined the French army and excelled in combat.