Veteran of The Day – 5-21-26
SPOTLIGHT: Sgt. Freddie Stowers
United States Army — World War I
January 12, 1896 – September 28, 1918
Hometown: Sandy Springs, South Carolina
Freddie Stowers
A Doughboy in the Trenches of France
Sergeant Freddie Stowers served in the segregated United States Army during World War I as part of the:
371st Infantry Regiment
Like many African American soldiers of the era, Stowers fought bravely abroad while facing inequality at home.
Still, he answered the nation’s call.
Assault on Hill 188
On September 28, 1918, during operations in France, Stowers and his platoon advanced against heavily defended German positions.
As American forces approached:
- enemy machine guns opened devastating fire
- soldiers fell across open ground
- the assault stalled under intense resistance
Even after being wounded, Stowers continued leading his men forward.
Leading From the Front
Witnesses reported that:
- Stowers crawled forward encouraging his troops
- reorganized the attack under fire
- pressed toward enemy trenches despite severe wounds
His leadership inspired the assault to continue and helped his unit capture the position.
He later died from his wounds.
Recognition Delayed
For decades, Stowers’ heroism went largely unrecognized.
Finally, in 1991, he was posthumously awarded:
the Medal of Honor
He became the first African American soldier from World War I to receive the nation’s highest military decoration.
Reflection
Some heroes wait generations for history to speak their name.
Freddie Stowers led from the front when courage was needed most.
And America eventually remembered.
Decorations & Honors
Medal of Honor
Final Resting Place
Sgt. Freddie Stowers rests with honor at Meuse-Argonne American Cemetery, France.
The Micky Spano Radio Show proudly honors Sergeant Freddie Stowers, United States Army, as Veteran of the Day for May 21, 2026, remembering his courage, his sacrifice, and his leadership during World War I.
Honor The Fallen | Support The Living | Teach The Next Generation
Leave a Reply