JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – The Clara White Mission (CWM) held a Flag & Wreath Memorial Service to remember African American veterans who served in World War I and II.
The ceremony was held at the Pinehurst Cemetery on Jacksonville‘s northside and fell on Dr. Eartha M.M. White’s birthday. She is the founder of the CWM.
Pinehurst Cemetery is a historic site where many veterans who served were laid to rest. These veterans faced segregation and discrimination but still showed sacrifices for the country.
Over 100 flags and wreaths were laid through the cemetery.
“Each headstone represents a chapter of resilience and an untold story of those who served with honor despite the challenges they faced. This memorial allows us to acknowledge and celebrate their contributions to our nation,” guest speaker Ennis Davis said.
Veteran Anthony Landrum, president of Montford Point Marines Chapter 29, explained why the event was important to the community.
“We think it’s important because us, especially as Black men and Black women, we didn’t get to serve in the early years. And like I said, for the Marine Corps, we weren’t allowed to serve until 1942 to 1949, and all of our training was segregated,” Landrum said.
Toshiko Moultrie said they wanted to highlight a piece of history in Jacksonville.
“It is a great honor of respect,” Moultrie said. “I have learned something as me as we’re going we was going through the process and going through getting everything set up. I didn’t even know it was veterans over here.”
About 200 veterans were honored at Pinehurst Cemetery Monday.
Landrum said he plans to bring his cadets and troops to the cemeteries to clean them up and maintain them.