WWI Hellfighter Closer to Getting Medal of Honor Award
Harlem Hellfighter Henry Lincoln Johnson is another step closer to being the second black WWI hero to be awarded the Medal of Honor. The Oregonian reported Sept. 4 that a campaign launched by former New York Sen. Joe DioGuardi and continued by Portland City Commissioner Nick Fish; Sens. Charles Schumer of New York and Ron Wyden of Oregon; and The Skanner News, seems to be succeeding. Read The Oregonian’s story here. http://www.oregonlive.com/business/index.ssf/2014/09/wwi_african-american_soldier_h.html
Secretary of Defense Chuck Hagel has recommended the honor for Johnson, who fought off several German soldiers to save his comrade Neadom Roberts. Two more steps remain before the award can go forward. The Senate must vote to approve it because it is more than five years since Johnson’s acts of bravery. Finally President Obama would have to approve the award.