These are a group of African American soldiers who were belatedly awarded the Medal of Honor in 1997,and their inspiring stories.

Staff Sergeant Edward A. Carter,Jr.

Citation:For extraordinary heroism in action on 23 March 1945,near Speyer,Germany.  When the tank on which he was riding received heavy bazooka and small arms fire,Sergeant Carter voluntarily attempted to lead a three-man group across an open field.  Within a short time,two of his men were killed and the third seriously wounded.  Continuing on alone,he was wounded five times and finally forced to take cover.  As eight enemy riflemen attempted to capture him,Sergeant Carter killed six of them and captured the remaining two.  He then crossed the field using as a shield his two prisoners from which he obtained valuable information concerning the disposition of enemy troops.  Staff Sergeant Carter’s extraordinary heroism was an inspiration to the officers and men of the Seventh Army Infantry Company Number I (Provisional) and exemplify the highest traditions of the Armed Forces.

Private First Class Willy F. James,Jr.

Citation:For extraordinary heroism in action on 7 April 1945 near Lippoldsberg,Germany.  As lead scout during a maneuver to secure and expand a vital bridgehead,Private First Class James was the first to draw enemy fire.  He was pinned down for over an hour,during which time he observed enemy positions in detail.  Returning to his platoon,he assisted in working out a new plan of maneuver.  He then led a squad in the assault,accurately designating targets as he advanced,until he was killed by enemy machine gun fire while going to the aid of his fataly wounded platoon leader.  Private First Class James’fearless,self-assigned actions,coupled with his diligent devotion to duty exemplified the finest traditions of the Armed Forces.

Staff Sergeant Ruben Rivers

Citation:For extraordinary heroism in action during the 15-19 November 1944,toward Guebling,France.  Though severely wounded in the leg,Sergeant Rivers refused medical treatment and evacuation,took command of another tank,and advanced with his company in Guebling the next day.  Repeatedly refusing evacuation,Sergeant Rivers continued to direct his tank’s fire at enemy positions through the morning of 19 November 1944.  At dawn,Company A’s tanks began to advance towards Bougaktroff,but were stopped by enemy fire.  Sergeant Rivers,joined by

another tank,opened fire on the enemy tanks,covering Company A as they withdrew.  “In doing so,Sergeant Rivet’s tank was hit,killing him and wounding the crew.  Staff Sergeant Rivers’fighting spirit and daring leadership were an inspiration to his unit and exemplify the highest traditions of military service.