The
vision of this
memorial
is to capture and increase the awareness of those individuals past,
present and future as to the African American history after the
attack on Pearl Harbor 1941 and the several months which followed.
Though Executive Order 8802 (signed by then President Franklin D
Roosevelt) established the Fair Employment Practice Commission
prohibiting racial discrimination, it was not until August 1942 when
the 1st African American recruit arrived at Montford Point. Progress
of media events and articles are but a small measure by which the
story is told.
Whether you are a civilian, retired service member, veteran , or a
member currently serving in the armed forces (Active or Reserve) it
is our nation's history that makes us strong.
This
effort and the monumental task to broaden
ideals
of perseverance,
dignity the sense of honor and the
conscience awareness of the impact they had
on
freedom
and democracy is why we are seeking your participation in this
project.
The Final Roll Call
- a Commemorative booklet that lists the
names, photos, thoughts and comments of many of the living Original
Marines that were trained at Montford Point Camp from 1942 through
1949 was unveiled at the 2004 Annual National Convention Washington
DC. What followed was the announcement on the efforts to build this
monument.
1.
Why
build a Monument ?
As it is our
mission to establish and perpetuate the legacy of the first African
Americans who entered and served in the United States Marine Corps
from 1942-1949 at Montford Point Camp - New River North Carolina.
2.
Why
build
the Memorial now?
Time, and the legacy of these men
is passing before our eyes. The mission of the MPMA is to support
and aid our community in the expansion of history and ensure
inclusion by expanding the knowledge so often forgotten or
discounted. Once these men pass soon we will not be able to secure
the accuracy of information and a generation will be lost.
3.
What will the Memorial look like
& how
much
will it cost?
Both are still in development and
design. To date many of our contributors have been from the
individual Chapters, Life Members, and small donations. This is why we are embarking on
this outreach campaign.