Army at this time drafted both black and white men, but they served in segregated units. In 1913 President Wilson, in a bow to Southern pressure, even ordered the segregation of federal office workers. Ferguson (1896) established that the 14th Amendment allowed for separate but equal treatment under the law. While America was on a crusade to make the world safe for democracy abroad, it was neglecting the fight for equality at home. Participation in the war effort was problematic for African Americans. Among the first regiments to arrive in France, and among the most highly decorated when it returned, was the 369th Infantry (formerly the 15th Regiment New York Guard), more gallantly known as the 'Harlem Hellfighters.' The 369th was an all-black regiment under the command of mostly white officers including their commander, Colonel William Hayward. Constitution (Article I, Section 8) 'to raise and support Armies,' Congress passed the Selective Service Act of 1917. Under the powers granted to it by the U.S. 'The world,' he said, 'must be made safe for democracy.' Quickly, Americans swung into action to raise, equip, and ship the American Expeditionary Force to the trenches of Europe. It was not until April 2, 1917, that President Wilson asked Congress to declare war on Germany. While the Great War raged in Europe for three long years, America steadfastly clung to neutrality. Photographs of the 369th Infantry and African Americans during World War I Background
