Page:W. E. B. Du Bois - The Gift of Black Folk.pdf/145

Rh ceding the armistice. Their Commanding General said:

“Five months ago today the 92nd Division landed in France.

"After seven weeks of training, it took over a sector in the front line, and since that time some portion of the Division has been practically continuously under fire.

"It participated in the last battle of the war with creditable success, continuously pressing the attack against highly organized defensive works. It advanced successfully on the first day of the battle, attaining its objectives and capturing prisoners. This in the face of determined opposition by an alert enemy, and against rifle, machine-gun and artillery fire. The issue of the second day's battle was rendered indecisive by the order to cease firing at eleven A. M.—when the armistice became effective."

With the small chance thus afforded Negro troops nevertheless made a splendid record and especially those under Negro officers. If they had had larger opportunity and less organized prejudice they would have done much more. Perhaps their greatest credit is from the fact that they withstood so bravely and uncomplainingly the barrage of hatred and offensive prejudice aimed