NEGRO SOLDIER
SHOULD BE GIVEN A CHANCE FOR PROMOTION AS WELL AS A CHANCE TO DIE--WHY
WHITE OFFICERS OVER NEGRO SOLDIERS?

Ever since the conclusion of the conflict of '61-'65, in which Negro
troops numbered by thousands, took an active part upon behalf of the
Union, there has been a growing and insistent wonder in the minds of
many, why, given a chance to die in the military service of the nation,
they should not also at the same time be given a chance for promotion.

Subsequent affairs engaged in by the government requiring the
intervention of its military arm, the Spanish-American war, the
Philippines investiture incident thereto, the Mexican disagreement, the
whole crowned by the stupendous World War; its frightful devastation and
din yet fresh to our sight, still filling our ears, as it will for
years; in all of which they have contributed their share of loyalty and
blood--of LIVES!--have but added to, strengthened the wonder mentioned.

Up to the beginning of the European muddle it was discussed if at all,
not so much as a condition demanding uncensored condemnation, as one to
continue to be patient with, trusting to time and an awakened sense of
fair play upon the part of the nation at large to note the custom
complained of, and banish the irritation by abolishing the cause.

However, there has not been lacking those who have spoken out, who have
raised their voices in protest against what they deemed an injustice to
the loyal "fighting men" of their race, and so feeling, have not
hesitated to make their plea to those above empowered to listen,
regardless of the mood in which they did so.

As long ago as the summer of 1915, or to be exact, August 26th of that
year, Capt. R.P. Roots of Seattle, Washington, addressed a letter to
the Hon. Lindley M. Garrison at Washington, at the time Secretary of
War, directing his attention to the discrepancy of assignment complained
of, accompanied with certain suggestions; having to do with a condition
that the government must eventually face; that will not down, and must
sooner or later be abrogated. Captain Roots' communication to the
Secretary of War, also one addressed to the Hon. Joseph Tumulty, private
secretary to President Wilson, follows:

"Seattle, Wash., August 26, 1915.
"Hon. Lindley M. Garrison, Secretary of War,
Dear Sir: As an ex-officer of the Spanish-American war, having served as
Captain of Company "E"