803rd Pioneer Infantry Band on the U.S.S. Philippines, 1919

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Courtesy of Library of Congress, "803rd Pioneer Infantry Band, No. 16," 1919

Description

This 1919 photograph is of the 803rd Pioneer Infantry Band onboard the U.S.S. Philippines in Brest Harbor, France. This was an African-American band who played for French and American troops during their military service overseas.

Source-Dependent Questions

• What do you notice in this photograph that demonstrates how some African Americans contributed to the war effort?
• Do you feel this is a worthwhile contribution to the war effort, or was this a way to allow African Americans to “serve their country” but not fight with the rest of the Armed Forces?

Citation Information

"803rd Pioneer Infantry Band, No. 16," 1919. Courtesy of Library of Congress