The history of the United States Marine Corps is filled with tales of bravery, dedication, and sacrifice. However, one of the most overlooked stories is that of John Martin, also known as Keto, the first African American to serve as a Marine. His service, along with that of other African Americans in the Continental Marines, is a testament to the early contributions of Black Americans in shaping the military history of the United States.
John Martin’s Enlistment and Service
John Martin, a slave from Delaware, stood at the crossroads of history when a Continental Marines officer recruited him in April 1776. His enlistment defied convention and legality, as his enslaver never gave consent. Miles Pennington, an officer aboard the brig Reprisal, took Martin into the ranks of the Marine platoon, unknowingly making him a pioneer for African Americans in the Marine Corps.
The Reprisal was one of the first warships commissioned by the Continental Congress to fight in the American Revolutionary War. As a Marine aboard the vessel, Martin served for nearly a year and a half, participating in various naval engagements against the British. The Continental Marines played a crucial role in amphibious warfare, boarding enemy ships and providing security for naval operations. John Martin’s service on the Reprisal placed him in the midst of one of the most important conflicts in American history.
Tragic End: The Sinking of the Reprisal
In October 1777, the Reprisal sank at sea, taking all hands aboard. John Martin, along with the rest of his Marine unit, perished in the sinking. Although he died early in his military career, John Martin paved the way for other African Americans to serve in the Marine Corps.
Other African Americans in the Continental Marines
John Martin was not alone in his service. Historical records indicate that at least twelve other African Americans served with various Continental Marine units between 1776 and 1777. The era’s incomplete and sometimes inaccurate record-keeping makes it difficult to determine the exact number of African American Marines. The actual number may have been even higher than recorded.
These men served in various capacities, fighting alongside their white counterparts and proving their valor on the battlefield. Their contributions remained largely unrecognized in official records. Racial prejudices and the complexities of military service during the Revolutionary War overshadowed their efforts.
The Reconstitution of the Marine Corps and Racial Exclusion
Despite the sacrifices made by African Americans in the Continental Marines, their role in the Marine Corps faced significant challenges in the years that followed. When the U.S. reconstituted the Continental Marines as the United States Marine Corps in 1798, it reinforced racial barriers. U.S. Secretary of War James McHenry wrote to a subordinate, explicitly banning African Americans from enlisting in the Marine Corps. His decision mirrored the widespread racial attitudes of the time. This policy effectively excluded Black Americans from serving as Marines. The ban remained in place for nearly 150 years.
The Long Road to Integration
The exclusion of African Americans from the Marine Corps remained in place until World War II. In 1942, after President Franklin D. Roosevelt issued Executive Order 8802 prohibiting racial discrimination in the defense industry, the Marine Corps finally accepted Black recruits. However, even then, African American Marines faced segregation and discrimination within the ranks.
The first group of African American Marines, known as the Montford Point Marines, trained separately at Montford Point, North Carolina. They were not allowed to train at the traditional Marine Corps facilities at Parris Island and San Diego. Despite segregation, they served with distinction in the Pacific Theater during World War II. Their dedication and bravery eventually paved the way for the full integration of the Marine Corps in 1949.
Honoring the Legacy of John Martin and Black Marines
Today, people widely recognize and celebrate African Americans’ contributions to the Marine Corps. From the groundbreaking service of John Martin to the heroism of the Montford Point Marines and beyond, Black Marines have played a vital role in defending the United States.
John Martin’s story is more than just a footnote in military history. It serves as a powerful reminder of the resilience and determination of African Americans who sought to serve their country. They fought bravely, even when that same country denied them basic rights. As we honor his legacy, we must continue to recognize the sacrifices and achievements of all who have fought for freedom and justice.
Conclusion
John Martin’s journey from an enslaved man in Delaware to the first African American Marine is an important piece of American history that deserves recognition. While his service ended in tragedy with the sinking of the Reprisal, his legacy lives on in the countless African Americans who have since served in the United States Marine Corps. By acknowledging and celebrating these contributions, we keep their stories alive and fully appreciate their impact on military history.
