Uncategorized | Leonard W. Kidd Memorial

In celebration of St. Patrick’s Day, American Legion Post 2001 reviews a rich history of military contribution:

How did Irish immigrants contribute to the American Revolution?

Our Armed forces and Irish immigrants (and their descendants) have been a recognizable part of America’s history. According to the British parliament, during the American Revolution, the consensus was that the Continental Army was half comprised of Irishmen. George Washington was a member of the Friendly Sons of St. Patrick; an important alliance since Irish-born soldiers were intertwined with his command and subsequent legacy.

Excerpt from one of the writings of George Washington’s adopted son, George Washington Park Custis:

“When our friendless standard was first unfurled for resistance, who were strangers [foreigners] that first mustered ‘round its staff when it reeled in the fight, who more bravely sustained it than Erin’s generous sons? Who led the assault on Quebec [General Montgomery] and shed early luster on our arms, in the dawn of our revolution? Who led the right wing of Liberty’s forlorn hope [General Sullivan] at the passage of the Delaware [just before the attack on Trenton]? Who felt the privations of the camp, the fate of battle, or the horrors of the prison ship more keenly than the Irish? Washington loved them, for they were the companions of his toil, his perils, his glories, in the deliverance of his country.”

A lesser-known fact was that the Irish held a key role in the untried U.S. Navy. Congress designated John Barry, an Irish immigrant, as the “Father of the United States Navy.” Irish-Americans have served with distinction for the entire history of the United States with 2,021 Medal of Honor recipients – more than half of MOHs awarded since 2009.

Today, an Army unit named the New York Fighting 69 boasts a fully integrated and diverse precinct. The 69^th Regiment, part of the New York National Guard, leads New York City’s St. Patrick’s Day Parade, displaying Irish Wolfhound mascots up and down fifth avenue. The precinct’s vibrant Irish heritage can be seen (literally) marching the streets of Manhattan.

See the source image

Sources:

Irish won the American Revolution, remembered on Patriot’s Day | IrishCentral.com

How the Irish Immigrants Came to New England – New England Historical Society

As Black History month comes to a close, American Legion Post 2001 would like to take a moment to reflect on a shared history that translates into modern day comradery. February was earmarked as Black History month because it coincided with Abraham Lincoln’s and Frederick Douglass’ birthdays – two outspoken leaders whose efforts led to the abolitionist movement.

The first Black History month was celebrated from January 2, 1970 – February 28, 1970 at Kent State. Contributions from the black community are intertwined with the foundation of our great nation. The Wall Street Journal describes Black History month as “a time when the culture and contributions of African Americans take center stage” in a variety of cultural institutions including theaters, libraries and museums.

This year, we would like to highlight the accomplishments of Tuskagee Airman Carl Johnson. Loudoun County resident and member of the Leonard W. Kidd Memorial American Legion Post 2001 (AL Post 2001) of Ashburn VA, Carl Johnson, was the last Tuskegee Airman to earn his wings in 1946. The Tuskegee airmen were the first African American Aviators in the U.S. Army Air Corps. At 94 years old, he can remember a time when he overcame many obstacles to achieve the rank of Colonel in the U.S. Army. He selflessly served his Country with 30 years of military service and tenures at DOD and the FAA.

Americanism does not adhere to skin color, but rather a collection of ideals that sets us apart as a democratic republic. Perhaps other organizations have gone above and beyond to prove these facts. Here, at American Legion Post 2001, we hold these truths to be self evident and common sense. Please join us in celebrating one of many unique voices that makes us The UNITED States of America.

History Channel: Tuskagee Airmen

Recipes to Celebrate Black History Month

Frederick Douglass Poem

Black History Month Books

If you are interested in joining American Legion Post 2001, please email adjutant@ashburnlegion.org