Who were the first two black Marines to enlist in the Marine Corps?

The first two black Marines to enlist in the Marine Corps were Alfred Masters and George Thompson. They bravely joined during a time when the military was not yet fully integrated and faced significant challenges due to the prevailing racial discrimination. Their enlistment in 1942 marked a significant step toward the eventual integration of the Marine Corps and highlighted the contributions of African Americans in a segregated military. This historical milestone laid the groundwork for future generations of black service members and played a crucial role in the broader civil rights movement. The names of Masters and Thompson are often recognized in discussions about diversity and inclusion within the U.S. military, particularly in the Marine Corps.