American Illustration 45 Winners

The 369th Infantry Regiment or, Harlem Hellfighters, was an all-Black unit in the U.S. Army during World War I. Renowned for their bravery and resilience, they spent 191 days in continuous combat—more than any other American unit — and received numerous accolades for their valor, including the French Croix de Guerre. After returning to a hero's welcome in 1919, the Hellfighters continued to face racial discrimination in the United States. Their service laid the groundwork for future civil rights advancements and the eventual desegregation of the military. Harlem Hellfighters Congressional Gold Medal unveiling ceremony, September 3, 2025, Washington, D.C.