![]() ![]() Thomas Mandigo was born in South Carolina and spent 40 years enslaved. Two sailors who served aboard Union Vessels were Thomas Mandigo and John Lawson. Unlike the Army, the Navy paid equal wages, had better food rations and had more entry-level enlisted positions. To return them would be impolitic as well as cruel…you will do well to employ them.” In time, 16% of the Union Navy would be African Americans. Secretary of the Navy Gideon Wells said of the situation, “It is not the policy of this Government to invite or encourage this kind of desertion and yet, under the circumstances, no other course…could be adopted without violating every principle of humanity. It reached a point where a policy had to be made. However, as the war raged on, an influx of African Americans from the South sought refuge among Union vessels. Many Northern free blacks were already enlisted in the Navy at the start of the war and many more joined up when the call was put out. The Union Navy’s official position on African Americans was ambivalent at the beginning of the war. For the month of February, we will share with you a few of the pioneering stories that led the way for sailors of today. A history that all sailors can call their own and be proud of. From the eight black sailors who earned the Medal of Honor during the Civil War to the 14 black female yeomen who enlisted during World War I, African American Naval history is a part of the greater Navy story. Those sailors who serve today proudly know the accomplishments of those who came before them. ![]() Howard said, “By taking the time to educate ourselves on our history and the people who shaped this nation, we can more fully appreciate the ideals set down by the founders….It’s a reminder that our work is to sustain freedom and ensure that rights and liberty belong to all our citizens.” Like many African Americans, those in the Navy had to struggle in the beginning to get where they are today. In response to the question, “What does Black History Month mean to you?”, Admiral Michelle J. A celebration of accomplishments, important persons and a culture that has helped shaped this country. Last week we marked the beginning of Black History Month. ![]()
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