Black soldiers

dtf08 · #1 (**permalink**) August 31st, 2005, 05:49 AM

After reading "The Pegasus Bridge" I was suprrised to discover that blacks served in the British Airborne, Ambrose talks about Darky Banes, one of a few black troops. I knew of black US troops, my father served in the 92nd, but believed the Brits were also segregated. If anyone could provide any information on black briton contribution and status, i would be most appreciative. Thanks

Stevin · #2 (**permalink**) August 31st, 2005, 07:36 AM

Hi dtf, and welcome to the forums.

My only source is the book Lest We Forget by Robert Murray on the participation of black troops from the West Indies. By far most joined the RAF, most as ground crew. However, they also made air crew, the most notable being Billy Strachan, who did a first tour as wireless operator/air gunner and then became a pilot.

Also Dr. Arthur Wint, who joined RAF Air crew and won the Gold medal for the 440 yard dash at the 1948 Olympics. He then became a Dr. in medicine.

Sqn Leader Ulric Cross DSO DFC was the highest ranking East Indian air man.

I understand from the book the West Indians weren't segregated in their units but there wasn't much socializing either, except for exception.

Martin Bull · #3 (**permalink**) August 31st, 2005, 06:22 PM

Don't forget that conscription only applied to the United Kingdom. Very, very few coloured people lived in the British Isles in the 1940s.

Troops from the Commonwealth and the Dominions were volunteers.

Ali Morshead · #4 (**permalink**) September 1st, 2005, 09:58 AM

Google for your answer, I read a site once which went into a fair bit of detail.

The British Army of the late 1700's - 1800's had a small number of Black, mostly West Indian, Soldiers serving in its ranks.

There was also the British West Indies Rgt which fought in Palestine in WW1.

I believe Jamaica provided about 5000, mostly Ground Crew, during WW2.

I know Bermuda provided a company for the 1st Lincolns, but this could have been White settlers.