REMEMBERING THE PAST: A TRIBUTE TO HAITIAN SOLDIERS
Feb 22, 2016
On October 9, 1779, a force of more than 500 Haitian gens de couleur libre (free men of color) joined American colonists and French troops in an unsuccessful push to drive the British from Savannah. The regiment, known as the Chasseurs Volontaires de Saint-Domingue, were the largest unit of men of African descent to fight in the American Revolution.
As battered American and French soldiers fell back, the Haitian troops moved in to provide a retreat. Due to their inexperience, the Chasseurs suffered a high number of casualties. These Haitian Americans made a significant contribution to our freedom with their bravery.
After 228 years, the colored soldiers were finally recognized for their heroic actions. A monument to the Haitian soldiers was placed in Benjamin Franklin Square in Savannah, Georgia.
Children of Fallen Patriots Foundation pays respect to soldiers of all ethnicities who have served honorably from the Revolutionary War to today’s military activities. Chief of Operations, Katelyn N. Brewer, stopped at the memorial to honor the Haitian soldiers on Fallen Patriots behalf.
It’s Fallen Patriots sincere hope that the heroic actions of all ethnicities continue to be honored throughout history.