Capitol to Host Ceremony Honoring the Harlem Hellfighters with Congressional Gold Medals
Washington D.C. – The historic Emancipation Hall, located within the Capitol Visitor Center, has been authorized to host a distinguished ceremony for the presentation of Congressional Gold Medals. This significant event will honor the bravery and sacrifice of the Harlem Hellfighters, as established by the Harlem Hellfighters Congressional Gold Medal Act. The authorization was published by GovInfo.gov on June 28, 2025.
The Harlem Hellfighters, officially the 369th Infantry Regiment, were an all-African American and Puerto Rican unit that served with distinction during World War I. Despite facing immense prejudice and segregation both at home and abroad, these courageous soldiers demonstrated unparalleled valor and resilience. They were among the first American forces to arrive in France and were assigned to French army command, where they served on the front lines for an extended period, enduring some of the fiercest fighting of the war.
Their exemplary service, including their unbroken record of combat and their notable role in the Second Battle of the Marne, earned them widespread admiration and numerous accolades. The Congressional Gold Medal, the highest civilian award bestowed by the United States Congress, recognizes individuals, groups, or institutions that have provided outstanding service to the nation. The awarding of these medals is a long-overdue tribute to the Harlem Hellfighters’ significant contributions and their enduring legacy in American history.
The decision to hold the ceremony in Emancipation Hall underscores the importance of this occasion. Emancipation Hall, a central gathering space within the Capitol Visitor Center, serves as a symbolic location for events that commemorate pivotal moments and individuals in American history. Its use for this presentation will further highlight the historical significance of the Harlem Hellfighters’ achievements and their place in the ongoing narrative of civil rights and national service.
This ceremony will provide a poignant opportunity for lawmakers, military officials, descendants of the Harlem Hellfighters, and the public to come together and acknowledge the immense contributions and sacrifices of these American heroes. It serves as a powerful reminder of the challenges faced by African American soldiers in past conflicts and a celebration of their unwavering patriotism and courage in the face of adversity. The event is expected to be a deeply meaningful occasion, reflecting on the past and honoring the indelible mark the Harlem Hellfighters have left on the fabric of the United States.
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www.govinfo.gov published ‘H. Con. Res. 39 (EH) – Authorizing the use of Emancipation Hall in the Capitol Visitor Center for a ceremony to present the Congressional Gold Medals awarded under the Harlem Hellfighters Congressional Gold Medal Act.’ at 2025-06-28 02:20. Please write a detailed article about this news in a polite tone with relevant information. Please reply in English with the article only.