 For countless generations, black men and women have served honorably in the defense of our great nation. From the foreman of the United States to the most recent conflicts, these noble men and women have shown strength, bravery, fearlessness, and so much more as United States Marines. From June 1, 1942, after serving in nearly every battle from the War of 1812, the Civil War, to both World Wars, black Americans were finally permitted to join the United States Marine Corps. Alfred Masters became the first black American to enlist in the Marine Corps. He paved the way for many more black men to enlist and head to Marford Point, where they attended segregated basic training. Since then, black Marines have greatly contributed to the success of the United States Marine Corps and set examples for others to emulate. Lieutenant General Frank Peterson was the first black officer to earn the rank of General and Sergeant Major Alfred McMichael was the first Marine to become the Sergeant Major of the Marine Corps in 1999. In fiscal year 2021, Marine Corps Recruiting Committee reached historic success in diversity representation. More than 35% of all officer candidates and 48% of enlisted assessions were diverse. In honor of Black History Month, the Marine Corps is proud to celebrate and recognize the success, contributions, and the legacy of our Marines.