Harlem Hellfighters Bronze Medal

Bronze replica of Congressional Gold Medal awarded to Harlem Hellfighters

A 2021 act awarded a Congressional Gold Medal to the 369th Infantry Regiment, commonly known as the “Harlem Hellfighters,” in recognition of their bravery and outstanding service during World War I.

The Harlem Hellfighters were an African American infantry unit that spent more time in combat during WWI than any other American unit. Due to policies in the U.S. Army that kept African American soldiers segregated from white units, the Harlem Hellfighters were assigned to the French Army during the conflict and spent more time in the trenches than any other American unit. Despite their courage, sacrifice, and dedication to their country, they returned home to face racism and segregation from their fellow countrymen.

The obverse design depicts three uniformed WWI American infantrymen from the 369th Regiment. The inscriptions are “HARLEM HELLFIGHTERS,” “15TH NEW YORK NATIONAL GUARD,” and “U.S. ARMY 369TH INFANTRY REGIMENT.”

The reverse design represents a commemorative crest assembled from elements significant to the 369th Infantry Regiment: a coiled rattlesnake insignia, the American and French flags, the Croix de Guerre, a French Berthier rifle, and a tenor saxophone. The inscriptions are “2021” and “ACT OF CONGRESS.”

Designer for the obverse and reverse:
Justin Kunz (Artistic Infusion Program Designer)
Obverse Sculptor – Phebe Hemphill (Medallic Artist)
Reverse Sculptor – Craig A. Campbell (Medallic Artist)