Loading...
Initial language selection is based on your web browser preferences.
A soldier from the Harlem Hellfighters Infantry Regiment with his Winchester Trench Gun preparing to enter the crater area. What do you notice about his hand? Trench warfare heavily impacted soldiers' mental health. Living in cramped, muddy conditions with constant danger caused stress and anxiety, leading to conditions like shell shock, now known as post-traumatic stress disorder or PTSD. Over 350,000 African Americans served in WWI, with the Harlem Hellfighters spending an incredible 191 days in front-line combat - believed to be more than any other U.S. unit their size. In 1918, they trained under French command and never served under American command during the war.
