370th CROIX GUARRE

• Origins in World War I: The 370th Infantry Regiment, known as the “Croix de Guerre” Regiment, was originally formed as part of the Illinois National Guard and was composed largely of African American soldiers. • Distinctive Nickname: The “Croix de Guerre” nickname comes from the high French honor—the Croix de Guerre medal—awarded to the unit for its valor in battle. • Fighting Under French Command: Due to segregation in the U.S. Army during WWI, the 370th served under French command, where they earned respect as fierce combat soldiers. • Illinois Roots: The unit was originally the 8th Illinois Infantry, one of the few peacetime African American regiment units with black officers before being federalized as the 370th. • Impressive Decorations: Members of the 370th received numerous awards from the French government, including several Croix de Guerre and Legion of Honor medals. • Battlefield Heroism: The 370th fought in major campaigns such as the Oise-Aisne and the Meuse-Argonne offensives, distinguishing themselves for bravery and effectiveness. • No Ground Lost: The 370th was one of the few regiments in the American Expeditionary Forces that never lost a foot of ground or had a man taken prisoner during their time in combat. • Legacy of Leadership: The regiment had African American officers, rare at the time, including Colonel Franklin A. Dennison and Lieutenant Colonel Otis B. Duncan, the highest-ranking African American officer to serve in combat during WWI. • Postwar Recognition: After returning home, the unit participated in a celebrated victory parade in Chicago, drawing tens of thousands of supporters. • Enduring Legacy: The 370th is remembered as one of the most decorated African American combat units of WWI, and its history is preserved in museums and memorials in Illinois and France.