Friday, U.S. Rep. Gary Palmer (R-Hoover) announced that he and U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell (D-Birmingham) have introduced legislation to award a Congressional Gold Medal to the 761st Tank Battalion.
The 761st, known as the “Black Panthers,” enshrined its legacy in World War II as part of Gen. George Patton’s Third Army by serving as the first black American armored unit in military history.
The battalion first landed in Normandy, France in October 1944 and entered combat shortly after its arrival. The Black Panthers would go on to serve in combat for 183 consecutive days and liberate 30 Nazi-occupied towns, delivering crucial victories for the Allied Forces.
In a statement announcing the legislation, Palmer outlined the historic achievements of the soldiers who served in the 761st Tank Battalion.
“The 761st Tank Battalion occupies a special place in American history for their remarkable courage both in battle and in breaking new ground for black soldiers in our country,” stated Palmer. “Black soldiers served America with distinction in every war since the American Revolution, but discrimination remained an issue in the military, including during World War II.”
He added, “Known as the ‘Black Panthers,’ their motto was ‘Come out fighting,’ and they lived up to it. In 1944, the 761st were assigned to General S. Patton’s 3rd Army. In early November 1944, the 761st entered combat and remained on the front lines for 183 straight days, spearheading a number of Patton’s moves toward Germany, including being the first American unit to break through Germany’s Siegfried Line.”
Palmer made mention of former President Jimmy Carter awarding the battalion for its extraordinary heroism.
“The accomplishments of the 761st were largely unrecognized until 1978 when, over three decades after the war, the battalion finally received a Presidential Unit Citation,” noted Palmer. “The citation read, ‘Throughout this period of combat, the courageous and professional actions of the members of the “Black Panther” battalion, coupled with their indomitable fighting spirit and devotion to duty, reflect great credit on the 761st Tank Battalion, the United States Army, and this nation.’”
“By virtue of the battlefield accomplishments and the trail blazed by the men of the 761st Tank Battalion, the 761st have earned the honor of being recognized with the award of the Congressional Gold Medal,” concluded Palmer.
Dylan Smith is a staff writer for Yellowhammer News. You can follow him on Twitter @DylanSmithAL
Don’t miss out! Subscribe today to have Alabama’s leading headlines delivered to your inbox.