orts of General Pershing to find positive proof of the
valor, endurance and patriotism of the colored troops who battled for
liberty and democracy for all the world. The entire nation notes with
pride the splendid service of the 365th to the 372nd Infantry units,
inclusive. When historians tell the story of the sanguinary conflicts at
Chateau Thierry, in the Forest of Argonne, in the Champagne sector,
Belleau Wood and at Metz, the record will give reason to believe that
the victories achieved on those memorable fields might have shown a
different result had it not been for the remarkable staying and
fighting abilities of the colored troops. French, English and American
commanding officers unite in singing the praises of these gallant
warriors and agree that in the entire Allied Army no element contributed
more signally than did they to the final downfall of the German Military
Machine in proportion to their numbers.

Not only did the combatant units of the colored troops win laurels
across the sea, but the 301st Stevedore Regiment was cited for
exceptionally efficient work, having broken all records by unloading and
coaling the giant steamer "Leviathan" in fifty-six hours, competing
successfully with the best stevedore detachments on the western front of
France. Everywhere, behind the lines as well as when facing shot, shell
and gas, the colored soldiers have given a most creditable account of
themselves and are entitled to the product of their patriotism and
loyalty.

Those who remained at home during the war realize fully that the
patriotic service rendered by colored persons in civil life, both in
doing war work and in the purchase of Liberty Bonds and War Savings
Stamps is to be commended.

Surely after the many demonstrations of patriotism both on the
battlefield and at home the white people of this country will be willing
to accord the colored people a square deal by at least giving them a
fair opportunity to earn a livelihood in accordance with their ability.

We have been asking the impossible of the colored man and the colored
woman. We have demanded that they be honest, self-respecting citizens,
and at the same time we have forced them into surroundings which almost
make this result impossible. In many places they are deprived of a fair
opportunity to obtain education or amusement in a decent environment.
Only the most menial positions are offered them. An educated girl
particularly has practically no oppo