Press

The public is invited to attend a free film screening and discussion of “Men of Bronze: The Black American Heroes of World War I”, a documentary about the black American soldiers known as the Harlem Hellfighters during World War I, on Friday, February 3 at 1:00 p.m. at the Frank E. Merriweather Library at 1324 Jefferson Avenue, Buffalo. The film will be introduced by New York State Historian Devin Lander. Following the film screening, New York State Museum Senior Historian Aaron Noble will lead a question and answer session.

“Men of Bronze” is the definitive story of the black American soldiers of the 369th Infantry Regiment, known as the "Harlem Hellfighters," who served with the French Army in World War I. Although relegated to non-combat duty by the U.S. Command, the 369th was sent to France and spent more time in front-line trenches than any other American infantry unit. Fighting alongside French, Moroccan and Senegalese soldiers at the campaigns of Champagne-Marne and Meuse-Argonne, the courageous men of the 369th distinguished themselves in some of the fiercest battles of the Great War.

“We’re proud to bring the ‘Men of Bronze’ film program to the Buffalo community during Black History Month,” said Board of Regents member Catherine Collins. “I encourage the public – students and adults alike – to attend the program and learn about the African American soldiers who bravely fought for the nation during World War I.”

This program is sponsored by New York State Board of Regents member Dr. Catherine Collins; New York State Education Department; New York State Museum; Buffalo and Erie County Public Library System; Buffalo Public Schools; Buffalo Public Schools History/Social Studies Department; VA Western New York Healthcare System – Minority Veterans Program; The Links, Incorporated Buffalo Chapter, Erie County Chapter and Niagara Falls Chapter.

The State Museum is a program of the New York State Education Department’s Office of Cultural Education. Located at 222 Madison Avenue in Albany, the Museum is open Tuesday through Sunday from 9:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.  It is closed on Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year's Day. Admission is free. Further information about programs and events can be obtained by calling (518) 474-5877 or visiting the Museum website at www.nysm.nysed.gov.