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CC0
1915 WWI German Mauser rifle or Gwehr 98
- Created by
- Mauser, German, founded 1811
- Used by
- Cpl. McVey,, Lawrence Leslie Sr., American, 1897 - 1968
- Subject of
- 369th Infantry Regiment, American, 1913 - 1945
- Date
- 1915-1916
- Medium
- wood and metal with leather
- Dimensions
- H x W x D (without strap): 4 7/8 × 49 1/4 × 1 3/4 in. (12.4 × 125.1 × 4.5 cm)
- H x W (strap): 34 × 1 1/4 in. (86.4 × 3.2 cm)
- Description
- 1915 WWI German Mauser or Gwehr 98 rifle found in Germany by Corporal Lawrence McVey during World War I. The Gwehr 98 rifle has a bolt action system that has two locking lugs just behind the bolt head. The rifle has a long metal barrel attached to the main body of the gun that is comprised of wood and metal pieces. The trigger guard is adjustable with numbers written on all sides and an adjustable locking lug. The rifle ends in a long wooden shoulder hold, in a triangular shape, with a notch cut out from the top. There are inscriptions on many parts of the rifle. On the top of the bolt, is the manufacture's name and location, [7.90 / WAFFENFABRIK / MAUSER. A.-G. / OFERNDORF A/N. /1915 l 16]. On the side of the loading bolt is the type of rifle, [GEW 98.] Under the barrel are the identifying numbers, [ 66 / 2766]. Attached to the middle of the rifle, where the barrel meets the body is a leather strap that has adjustable holes throughout for the metal hinge to attach. The leather has deteriorated and become detached at the shoulder of the rifle but the metal attachment remains on the body.
- Place made
- Oberndorf, Baden-Württemberg, Germany, Europe
- Classification
- Tools and Equipment-Weapons and ammunition
- Type
- rifles (long guns)
- Topic
- Military
- World War I
- Credit Line
- Collection of the Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture, Gift of Gina McVey
- Object number
- 2019.8
- Restrictions & Rights
- No Known Copyright Restrictions
-
CC0
Order of Commendation from the Commander of the French Armies of the East
- Created by
- French Republic, French, founded 1792
- Subject of
- Cpl. McVey,, Lawrence Leslie Sr., American, 1897 - 1968
- 369th Infantry Regiment, American, 1913 - 1945
- Date
- March 19, 1919
- Medium
- ink on paper with pressure-sensitive tape
- Dimensions
- H x W: 10 7/8 x 8 3/8
- Caption
- Due to racial tension within the US Army, the 369th Infantry Regiment was assigned to the French Army for the duration of US involvement in World War I. Formed from the 15th New York National Guard Regiment and nicknamed the "Harlem Hellfighters," the 369th was the first African American regiment to reach the battlefields of World War I and the first Allied troops to reach the banks of the Rhine. Upon completion of the 369th’s service in the war, the regiment had spent 191 days in combat, the longest of any American regiment. In appreciation for their actions in the Maison-en-Champagne campaign, the 369th was awarded the Croix de Guerre by the French Government for acts of bravery in conflicts against the enemy. In addition to this honor, 171 individual members of the 369th Regiment were awarded the Croix de Guerre and the Legion of Honor. The 369th Regiment finished their service in Europe and returned to the US in February 1919.
- Description
- An English-language dispatch titled [ORDER NO. 14.645 "D" (EXTRACT)] from the General Headquarters of the French Armies of the East. The commendation comes from the [Personnel Bureau / (Decorations)] and lists French and American forces and personnel who have put Corporal Laurence Leslie McVey up for an award. The order praises McVey for displaying courage by leading an attack that resulted in his being wounded. The paper has three distinct horizontal creases and one vertical crease.
- There is brown packing tape on the reverse and clear Scotch tape on the reverse and obverse holding the lower section together. Content is identical to object 2011.108.11.
- Transcription Center Status
- Transcribed by digital volunteers
- Classification
- Documents and Published Materials
- Topic
- Military
- World War I
- Credit Line
- Collection of the Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture, Gift of Gina R. McVey, Granddaughter
- Object number
- 2011.108.10
- Restrictions & Rights
- No Known Copyright Restrictions
-
CC0
Order of Commendation from the Commander of the French Armies of the East
- Created by
- French Republic, French, founded 1792
- Subject of
- Cpl. McVey,, Lawrence Leslie Sr., American, 1897 - 1968
- 369th Infantry Regiment, American, 1913 - 1945
- Date
- March 19, 1919
- Medium
- ink on paper with ink on plaster
- Dimensions
- H x W: 12 3/4 x 8
- Caption
- Due to racial tension within the US Army, the 369th Infantry Regiment was assigned to the French Army for the duration of US involvement in World War I. Formed from the 15th New York National Guard Regiment and nicknamed the "Harlem Hellfighters," the 369th was the first African American regiment to reach the battlefields of World War I and the first Allied troops to reach the banks of the Rhine. Upon completion of the 369th’s service in the war, the regiment had spent 191 days in combat, the longest of any American regiment. In appreciation for their actions in the Maison-en-Champagne campaign, the 369th was awarded the Croix de Guerre by the French Government for acts of bravery in conflicts against the enemy. In addition to this honor, 171 individual members of the 369th Regiment were awarded the Croix de Guerre and the Legion of Honor. The 369th Regiment finished their service in Europe and returned to the US in February 1919.
- Description
- An English-language dispatch titled [ORDER NO. 14.645 "D" (EXTRACT)] from the General Headquarters of the French Armies of the East. The commendation comes from the [Personnel Bureau / (Decorations)] and lists French and American forces and personnel who have put Corporal Laurence Leslie McVey up for an award. The order praises McVey for displaying courage by leading an attack that resulted in his being wounded. The paper has three distinct horizontal creases and one vertical crease. On the bottom right a math equation is written in black ink and the word [ordre] in graphite.
- The document is mounted to sheets of adhesive cloth on the reverse that have the label, [POROUS PLASTER / Manufactured for / LOEWENSTEIN'S PHARMACY]. Content is identical to object 2011.108.10.
- Transcription Center Status
- Transcribed by digital volunteers
- Place made
- France, Europe
- New York City, New York, United States, North and Central America
- Classification
- Documents and Published Materials
- Topic
- Military
- World War I
- Credit Line
- Collection of the Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture, Gift of Gina R. McVey, Granddaughter
- Object number
- 2011.108.11
- Restrictions & Rights
- No Known Copyright Restrictions
-
CC0
Order of Commendation from the Commander of the French Armies of the East
- Created by
- French Republic, French, founded 1792
- Subject of
- Cpl. McVey,, Lawrence Leslie Sr., American, 1897 - 1968
- 369th Infantry Regiment, American, 1913 - 1945
- Date
- March 19, 1919
- Medium
- ink on paper with ink on plaster
- Dimensions
- H x W: 12 7/16 x 8 3/8
- Caption
- Due to racial tension within the US Army, the 369th Infantry Regiment was assigned to the French Army for the duration of US involvement in World War I. Formed from the 15th New York National Guard Regiment and nicknamed the "Harlem Hellfighters," the 369th was the first African American regiment to reach the battlefields of World War I and the first Allied troops to reach the banks of the Rhine. Upon completion of the 369th’s service in the war, the regiment had spent 191 days in combat, the longest of any American regiment. In appreciation for their actions in the Maison-en-Champagne campaign, the 369th was awarded the Croix de Guerre by the French Government for acts of bravery in conflicts against the enemy. In addition to this honor, 171 individual members of the 369th Regiment were awarded the Croix de Guerre and the Legion of Honor. The 369th Regiment finished their service in Europe and returned to the US in February 1919.
- Description
- A French-language dispatch titled [ORDER NO. 14.645 "D" (EXTRAIT)] from the General Headquarters of the French Armies of the East. The commendation comes from the [Bureau Du PERSONNEL / (Décorations)] and lists French and American forces and personnel who have put Corporal Laurence Leslie McVey up for an award. The order praises McVey for displaying courage by leading an attack that resulted in his being wounded. The paper has three distinct horizontal creases and one vertical crease.
- The document is mounted to sheets of adhesive cloth on the reverse that have the label, [POROUS PLASTER / Manufactured for / LOEWENSTEIN'S PHARMACY]. Content is identical to object 2011.108.10 and .11.
- Transcription Center Status
- Transcribed by digital volunteers
- Place made
- France, Europe
- New York City, New York, United States, North and Central America
- Classification
- Documents and Published Materials
- Topic
- Military
- World War I
- Credit Line
- Collection of the Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture, Gift of Gina R. McVey, Granddaughter
- Object number
- 2011.108.12
- Restrictions & Rights
- No Known Copyright Restrictions
-
Discharge Certificate issued for Cpl. Lawrence Leslie McVey
- Created by
- United States Department of War, American, 1789 - 1947
- Subject of
- Cpl. McVey,, Lawrence Leslie Sr., American, 1897 - 1968
- 369th Infantry Regiment, American, 1913 - 1945
- Date
- March 17, 1936; September 16, 1968
- Medium
- toner on paper with metal
- Dimensions
- H x W: 14 × 8 11/16 in. (35.6 × 22.1 cm)
- Caption
- Due to racial tension within the US Army, the 369th Infantry Regiment was assigned to the French Army for the duration of US involvement in World War I. Formed from the 15th New York National Guard Regiment and nicknamed the "Harlem Hellfighters," the 369th was the first African American regiment to reach the battlefields of World War I and the first Allied troops to reach the banks of the Rhine. Upon completion of the 369th’s service in the war, the regiment had spent 191 days in combat, the longest of any American regiment. In appreciation for their actions in the Maison-en-Champagne campaign, the 369th was awarded the Croix de Guerre by the French Government for acts of bravery in conflicts against the enemy. In addition to this honor, 171 individual members of the 369th Regiment were awarded the Croix de Guerre and the Legion of Honor. The 369th Regiment finished their service in Europe and returned to the US in February 1919.
- Description
- A Photostat copy of a discharge certificate for Corporal Lawrence Leslie McVey. Two sheets that are stapled three times at the top. The title on top reads, [U.S. Veterans Administration Claim Number # C 600 698 / CERTIFICATE IN LIEU OF LOST OR DESTROYED / DISCHARGE CERTIFICATE]. Below is the Great seal of the United States with a fill in the blank section below outlining McVey's military service dates. The Second page has a [TRANSCRIPT FROM RECORD OF SERVICE] that tells which battles McVey fought and the decorations and honors he received. The back of the second page has a circular stamp in purple ink that reads, [BRONX, N.Y. / SEP / 16 / 1968 / USPO].
- Transcription Center Status
- Transcribed by digital volunteers
- Place made
- Washington, District of Columbia, United States, North and Central America
- Classification
- Documents and Published Materials
- Type
- photocopies
- Topic
- Military
- World War I
- Credit Line
- Collection of the Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture, Gift of Gina R. McVey, Granddaughter
- Object number
- 2011.108.13
- Restrictions & Rights
- No Known Copyright Restrictions
-
CC0
Photographic postcard of Cpl. Lawrence Leslie McVey in uniform
- Photograph by
- Mighell, Alfred Phillip, English American, 1878 - 1943
- Subject of
- Cpl. McVey,, Lawrence Leslie Sr., American, 1897 - 1968
- 369th Infantry Regiment, American, 1913 - 1945
- Date
- 1914 - 1918
- On ViewCommunity/Third Floor, 3 053
- Medium
- silver and photographic gelatin on photographic paper, with ink on paper
- Dimensions
- H x W: 5 7/16 x 3 7/16 in. (13.8 x 8.7 cm)
- Caption
- The 369th United States Infantry, nicknamed the “Harlem Hellfighters,” was the first African American regiment of troops to reach the battlefields of World War I. The 369th Regiment was formed from the 15th New York National Guard Regiment and was recognized as part of the U.S. Army on July 15th, 1917. The regiment arrived in Brest, France on January 1st, 1918, being the first African American U.S. soldiers to arrive in France and initially assigned to dam building and stevedores in charge of loading and unloading cargo. The 369th Regiment, due to racial tension within the US Army was assigned to the French Army for the duration of US involvement in WWI. The 369th were the first Allied troops of the war to reach the banks of the Rhine. Upon completion of the 369th’s service in the war, the regiment had spent 191 days in combat, the longest of any American regiment. The entire 369th Regiment, in appreciation for their actions in the Maison-en-Champagne campaign, was given the Croix de Guerre, a medal awarded by the French Government for acts of bravery in conflicts against the enemy. In addition to this honor, 171 individual members of the 369th Regiment were awarded the Croix de Guerre and the Legion of Honor. The 369th Regiment finished their service in Europe and returned to the US in February 1919.
- Description
- A photographic postcard of Lawrence McVey in uniform posing at attention. The word [HERO] is inscribed in pencil on the top right corner. On the reverse, there is adhesive residue and a piece of Scotch tape. In pencil, the inscription [Lawrence in World / War one.].
- Classification
- Media Arts-Photography
- Topic
- Military
- Photography
- World War I
- Credit Line
- Collection of the Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture, Gift of Gina R. McVey, Granddaughter
- Object number
- 2011.108.17
- Restrictions & Rights
- Public domain
-
U.S. World War I Victory medal issued to Cpl. Lawrence Leslie McVey
- Issued by
- United States Army, American, founded 1775
- Designed by
- Fraser, James Earle, American, 1876 - 1953
- Received by
- Cpl. McVey,, Lawrence Leslie Sr., American, 1897 - 1968
- Subject of
- 369th Infantry Regiment, American, 1913 - 1945
- Date
- 1919-1940
- Medium
- bronze and ribbon
- Dimensions
- H x W x D: 3 7/8 × 1 1/2 × 1/8 in. (9.8 × 3.8 × 0.3 cm)
- Caption
- Due to racial tension within the US Army, the 369th Infantry Regiment was assigned to the French Army for the duration of US involvement in World War I. Formed from the 15th New York National Guard Regiment and nicknamed the "Harlem Hellfighters," the 369th was the first African American regiment to reach the battlefields of World War I and the first Allied troops to reach the banks of the Rhine. Upon completion of the 369th’s service in the war, the regiment had spent 191 days in combat, the longest of any American regiment. In appreciation for their actions in the Maison-en-Champagne campaign, the 369th was awarded the Croix de Guerre by the French Government for acts of bravery in conflicts against the enemy. In addition to this honor, 171 individual members of the 369th Regiment were awarded the Croix de Guerre and the Legion of Honor. The 369th Regiment finished their service in Europe and returned to the US in February 1919.
- Description
- U.S. World War I Victory medal issued to Corporal Lawrence Leslie McVey with army battle and service clasps. The ribbon is rainbow colored with red in the center surrounded by yellow, green, blue and purple. The ribbon is extremely frayed and has areas of loss. The four bronze army battle and service clasps attached to the metal have a star on each side and read, [CHAMPAGNE - MARNE], [AISNE - MARNE], [MEUSE-ARGONNE], and [DEFENSIVE SECTOR]. The circular medal hangs from its ribbon by a circular metal loop. The front of the medal has an image of the figure Victory with wings and a halo holding a sword and shield. At the bottom of the medal the designer's name is inscribed, [FRASER]. The back of the medal features a shield with a battle ax above comprised of six staffs roped together. The shield has the inscription [U / S] on either side of central ax. On top of the medal, the inscription curved reads, [THE GREAT WAR FOR CIVILIZATION]. On either side of the central image is a list of the Allied countries. The countries on the left are [FRANCE / ITALY / SERBIA / JAPAN / MONTENEGRO / RUSSIA / GREECE]. The countries on the right read, [GREAT / BRITIAN / BELGIUM / BRAZIL / PORTUGAL / RUMANIA / CHINA]. Curved along the bottom are six stars.
- Place made
- United States, North and Central America
- Classification
- Awards and Medals
- Type
- medals
- Topic
- Military
- World War I
- Credit Line
- Collection of the Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture, Gift of Gina R. McVey, Granddaughter
- Object number
- 2011.108.2
- Restrictions & Rights
- No Known Copyright Restrictions
-
Application for veterans' disability allowance for Cpl. Lawrence Leslie McVey
- Created by
- United States Department of Veterans Affairs, American, founded 1989
- Subject of
- Cpl. McVey,, Lawrence Leslie Sr., American, 1897 - 1968
- 369th Infantry Regiment, American, 1913 - 1945
- Date
- after July 3, 1930
- Medium
- paper (fiber product)
- Dimensions
- H x W: 10 1/2 x 8 in. (26.7 x 20.3 cm)
- Description
- Application for veterans' disability allowance for Corporal Lawrence McVey. The form is labeled in the top corner, [UNITED STATES VETERANS BUREAU / Form 526-c] and in the center the title states, [APPLICATION OF VETERAN / FOR DISABILITY ALLOWANCE UNDER SECTION 200, WORLD WAR VETERANS' ACT, 1924 / AS AMENDED JULY 3, 1930]. The inner two pages are fill in the blank with personal information about McVey including place of birth, a physical, and military dates when he was wounded. The back of the form has three typed paragraphs labeled, [QUOTATIONS FROM THE WORLD WAR VETERANS' ACT, 1924, AS AMENDED JULY 3, 1930], [ATTORY FEES], and [PENALTY].
- Transcription Center Status
- Transcribed by digital volunteers
- Classification
- Documents and Published Materials
- Type
- military records
- Topic
- Health
- Military
- World War I
- Credit Line
- Collection of the Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture, Gift of Gina R. McVey, Granddaughter
- Object number
- 2011.108.22
- Restrictions & Rights
- No Known Copyright Restrictions
-
1914 - 1918 Inter-Allied Victory medal issued to Cpl. Lawrence Leslie McVey
- Manufactured by
- Monnaie de Paris, French, founded 1864
- Issued by
- French Republic, French, founded 1792
- Received by
- Cpl. McVey,, Lawrence Leslie Sr., American, 1897 - 1968
- Designed by
- Morlon, Pierre-Alexandre, French, 1878 - 1951
- Subject of
- 369th Infantry Regiment, American, 1913 - 1945
- Date
- 1922
- Medium
- bronze and ribbon
- Dimensions
- H x W: 3 1/2 × 1 7/16 × 1/8 in. (8.9 × 3.7 × 0.3 cm)
- Caption
- Due to racial tension within the US Army, the 369th Infantry Regiment was assigned to the French Army for the duration of US involvement in World War I. Formed from the 15th New York National Guard Regiment and nicknamed the "Harlem Hellfighters," the 369th was the first African American regiment to reach the battlefields of World War I and the first Allied troops to reach the banks of the Rhine. Upon completion of the 369th’s service in the war, the regiment had spent 191 days in combat, the longest of any American regiment. In appreciation for their actions in the Maison-en-Champagne campaign, the 369th was awarded the Croix de Guerre by the French Government for acts of bravery in conflicts against the enemy. In addition to this honor, 171 individual members of the 369th Regiment were awarded the Croix de Guerre and the Legion of Honor. The 369th Regiment finished their service in Europe and returned to the US in February 1919.
- Description
- 1914 - 1918 Inter-Allied Victory medal issued to Corporal Lawrence Leslie McVey for World War I. The ribbon is rainbow colored with red in the center surrounded by yellow, green, blue and purple. The rainbow-colored ribbon is dirty in spots and fraying at the end, but intact. There is no pin. The circular medal hangs from its ribbon by a circular metal loop. The front of the medal has an image of the Winged Victory with her arms outstretched and a sword hanging in its scabbard. The back of the medal is a Phrygian cap between the letters, [R / F]. Underneath the inscription reads, [LA / GRANDE GUERRE / POUR LA / CIVILISATION / 1914-1918].
- Classification
- Awards and Medals
- Textiles
- Type
- medals
- Topic
- Military
- World War I
- Credit Line
- Collection of the Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture, Gift of Gina R. McVey, Granddaughter
- Object number
- 2011.108.3
- Restrictions & Rights
- No Known Copyright Restrictions
-
CC0
French Croix de Guerre medal issued to Cpl. Lawrence Leslie McVey
- Issued by
- French Republic, French, founded 1792
- Designed by
- Bartholomé, Albert, French, 1848 - 1928
- Received by
- Cpl. McVey,, Lawrence Leslie Sr., American, 1897 - 1968
- Subject of
- 369th Infantry Regiment, American, 1913 - 1945
- Date
- 1918
- On ViewCommunity/Third Floor, 3 053
- Medium
- bronze, ribbon and metal
- Dimensions
- H x W: 4 1/4 x 1 1/2 x 1/8 in. (10.8 x 3.8 x 0.3 cm)
- Caption
- Due to racial tension within the US Army, the 369th Infantry Regiment was assigned to the French Army for the duration of US involvement in World War I. Formed from the 15th New York National Guard Regiment and nicknamed the "Harlem Hellfighters," the 369th was the first African American regiment to reach the battlefields of World War I and the first Allied troops to reach the banks of the Rhine. Upon completion of the 369th’s service in the war, the regiment had spent 191 days in combat, the longest of any American regiment. In appreciation for their actions in the Maison-en-Champagne campaign, the 369th was awarded the Croix de Guerre by the French Government for acts of bravery in conflicts against the enemy. In addition to this honor, 171 individual members of the 369th Regiment were awarded the Croix de Guerre and the Legion of Honor. The 369th Regiment finished their service in Europe and returned to the US in February 1919.
- Description
- Florentine bronze cross patée, with two crossed swords between the arms. The center of the front side shows the symbolic profile of the French Republic: a young woman wearing a Phrygian cap. The words [REPUBLIC FRANCAISE] (French Republic) encircle the portrait. The cross is suspended by a green ribbon with seven narrow vertical red stripes. A bronze star affixed to the ribbon indicates McVey was honored at the regiment or brigade level. The back of the medal has the dates of World War I, [1914 / 1918].
- Classification
- Awards and Medals
- Type
- medals
- Topic
- Military
- World War I
- Credit Line
- Collection of the Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture, Gift of Gina R. McVey, Granddaughter
- Object number
- 2011.108.9.1
- Restrictions & Rights
- No Known Copyright Restrictions
-
CC0
Certificate for French Croix de Guerre medal issued to Cpl. Lawrence L. McVey
- Created by
- French Republic, French, founded 1792
- Subject of
- Cpl. McVey,, Lawrence Leslie Sr., American, 1897 - 1968
- 369th Infantry Regiment, American, 1913 - 1945
- Date
- March 2, 1928
- Medium
- ink on paper
- Dimensions
- H x W: 17 7/8 × 22 3/16 in. (45.4 × 56.4 cm)
- Caption
- Due to racial tension within the US Army, the 369th Infantry Regiment was assigned to the French Army for the duration of US involvement in World War I. Formed from the 15th New York National Guard Regiment and nicknamed the "Harlem Hellfighters," the 369th was the first African American regiment to reach the battlefields of World War I and the first Allied troops to reach the banks of the Rhine. Upon completion of the 369th’s service in the war, the regiment had spent 191 days in combat, the longest of any American regiment. In appreciation for their actions in the Maison-en-Champagne campaign, the 369th was awarded the Croix de Guerre by the French Government for acts of bravery in conflicts against the enemy. In addition to this honor, 171 individual members of the 369th Regiment were awarded the Croix de Guerre and the Legion of Honor. The 369th Regiment finished their service in Europe and returned to the US in February 1919.
- Description
- Certificate for French Croix de Guerre medal issued to Corporal Lawrence L. McVey. The certificate is comprised of a central rectangle with a striped border followed by an inner illustration of a wooden frame wrapped in olive leaves on the left and oak leaves on the right. In the center top of the border, is an image of the Croix de Guerre with a helmet and ribbon above. Coming from either side of the helmet are palm and olive leaf branches. The bottom left and right of the rectangle border have a circle with text that reads, [HONNEUR] and [PATRIE]. In the center of the circles on the border, a rectangular space has the dates of World War I, [1914-1918]. The central written and printed section of the certificate is drawn to look like a piece of leather pinned to a frame. The top of the certificate reads in larger letters, [RÉPUBLIQUE / FRANÇAISE / MINISTÉRE / DE LA GUERRE. / CROIX DE GUERRE]. Below, French print and handwritten text described McVey's position and why he was awarded the medal.
- Transcription Center Status
- Transcribed by digital volunteers
- Classification
- Awards and Medals
- Type
- certificates
- Topic
- Military
- World War I
- Credit Line
- Collection of the Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture, Gift of Gina R. McVey, Granddaughter
- Object number
- 2011.108.9.2
- Restrictions & Rights
- No Known Copyright Restrictions
-
CC0
Panoramic photographic print of D Company, 369th regiment at Camp Merritt
- Created by
- Unidentified
- Subject of
- Cpl. McVey,, Lawrence Leslie Sr., American, 1897 - 1968
- 369th Infantry Regiment, American, 1913 - 1945
- Date
- 1917
- Medium
- silver and photographic gelatin on photographic paper
- Caption
- Corporal Lawrence McVey served with the 369th Infantry Company D during World War I, fighting in the Battles of Champagne-Marne Defensive, Meuse-Argonne Offensive, D’Afrique and Calvin Defensive Sectore. Due to racial tension within the US Army, the 369th Infantry Regiment was assigned to the French Army for the duration of US involvement in World War I. Formed from the 15th New York National Guard Regiment and nicknamed the “Harlem Hellfighters,” the 369th was the first African American regiment to reach the battlefields of World War I and the first Allied troops to reach the banks of the Rhine. Upon completion of the 369th’s service in the war, the regiment had spent 191 days in combat, the longest of any American regiment. In appreciation for their actions in the Maison-en-Champagne campaign, the 369th was awarded the Croix de Guerre by the French Government for acts of bravery in conflicts against the enemy. In addition to this honor, 171 individual members of the 369th Regiment were awarded the Croix de Guerre and the Legion of Honor. Corporal McVey was awarded the Croix de Guerre and the Purple Heart for bravely leading his squad in an attack against a nest of machine guns at Sechault, September 29, 1918. The 369th Regiment finished their service in Europe and returned to the US in February 1919.
- Description
- Panoramic black-and-white photograph of D Company, 369th regiment at Camp Merritt, New Jersey during World War I, owned by Cpl. Lawrence McVey. The photograph is titled, [Co. D. 15th, N.Y. / CAMP MERRITT NJ 1917.]. The Company is pictured in three rows, the top row standing, the middle row kneeling, and the bottom row seated with their knees bent, ankles crossed in front. The men are wearing military uniforms and a few men in the front row are holding their rifles. There are handwritten [x]s above and on top of some of the men in blue and black ink. On the bottom left and right of the image, there is text in white that cannot currently be seen in its condition. Buildings and trees can be seen in the background.
- The photograph had been rolled and is in extremely delicate condition. There are multiple tears and areas of loss throughout. The border is covered in scotch tape that has failed in areas and broken.
- Place captured
- Bergen County, New Jersey, United States, North and Central America
- Classification
- Media Arts-Photography
- Topic
- Military
- Photography
- World War I
- Credit Line
- Collection of the Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture, Gift of Gina R. McVey, Granddaughter
- Object number
- 2011.108.1
- Restrictions & Rights
- Public domain
-
CC0
Photographic postcard of Cpl. Lawrence Leslie McVey in uniform
- Printed by
- Unidentified
- Subject of
- Cpl. McVey,, Lawrence Leslie Sr., American, 1897 - 1968
- Written by
- Cpl. McVey,, Lawrence Leslie Sr., American, 1897 - 1968
- Subject of
- 369th Infantry Regiment, American, 1913 - 1945
- Date
- 1918
- Medium
- silver and photographic gelatin on photographic paper, with graphite on paper
- Dimensions
- H x W: 3 9/16 × 5 1/2 in. (9 × 14 cm)
- Caption
- Due to racial tension within the US Army, the 369th Infantry Regiment was assigned to the French Army for the duration of US involvement in World War I. Formed from the 15th New York National Guard Regiment and nicknamed the "Harlem Hellfighters," the 369th was the first African American regiment to reach the battlefields of World War I and the first Allied troops to reach the banks of the Rhine. Upon completion of the 369th’s service in the war, the regiment had spent 191 days in combat, the longest of any American regiment. In appreciation for their actions in the Maison-en-Champagne campaign, the 369th was awarded the Croix de Guerre by the French Government for acts of bravery in conflicts against the enemy. In addition to this honor, 171 individual members of the 369th Regiment were awarded the Croix de Guerre and the Legion of Honor. The 369th Regiment finished their service in Europe and returned to the US in February 1919.
- Description
- A black-and-white photographic postcard of Corporal Lawrence McVey in uniform posing with a cane. McVey stands in the center of a studio with a backdrop of an open window overlooking a forest. He is leaning his proper right arm on a square column stand and holding his gloves and cane in his proper left hand. He is standing on a wooden floor. On the reverse is a handwritten message. Typed text on the horizontal side of the post card reads, [CARTE POSTALE / Correspondance / Adresse]. The handwritten note begins below [Correspondence] and continues on the right side of the vertical line. McVey is writing to his sister and sending her his address so she could write back to him.
- The photograph has multiple tears throughout and a large area of loss at the top center. On the reverse side dark stains can be seen on the top right edge and bottom horizontal edge.
- Classification
- Media Arts-Photography
- Topic
- Military
- Photography
- World War I
- Credit Line
- Collection of the Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture, Gift of Gina R. McVey, Granddaughter
- Object number
- 2011.108.14
- Restrictions & Rights
- No Known Copyright Restrictions
-
CC0
Photograph of Cpl. Lawrence McVey in uniform wearing the Croix de Guerre medal
- Created by
- Alva Studio, American
- Subject of
- Cpl. McVey,, Lawrence Leslie Sr., American, 1897 - 1968
- 369th Infantry Regiment, American, 1913 - 1945
- Date
- ca. 1920
- Medium
- silver and photographic gelatin on photographic paper with paper frame
- Dimensions
- H x W (Case closed): 8 1/4 x 3 1/8 in. (21 x 7.9 cm)
- H x W (Case open): 8 1/4 × 7 3/8 in. (21 × 18.7 cm)
- Caption
- The 369th United States Infantry, nicknamed the “Harlem Hellfighters,” was the first African American regiment of troops to reach the battlefields of World War I. The 369th Regiment was formed from the 15th New York National Guard Regiment and was recognized as part of the U.S. Army on July 15th, 1917. The regiment arrived in Brest, France on January 1st, 1918, being the first African American U.S. soldiers to arrive in France and initially assigned to dam building and stevedores in charge of loading and unloading cargo. The 369th Regiment, due to racial tension within the US Army was assigned to the French Army for the duration of US involvement in WWI. The 369th were the first Allied troops of the war to reach the banks of the Rhine. Upon completion of the 369th’s service in the war, the regiment had spent 191 days in combat, the longest of any American regiment. The entire 369th Regiment, in appreciation for their actions in the Maison-en-Champagne campaign, was given the Croix de Guerre, a medal awarded by the French Government for acts of bravery in conflicts against the enemy. In addition to this honor, 171 individual members of the 369th Regiment were awarded the Croix de Guerre and the Legion of Honor. The 369th Regiment finished their service in Europe and returned to the US in February 1919.From "2011.108 Acquisition Justification," written by John Lutz, 7/13/2011; Approved by Michèle Gates Moresi as public caption 07/05/2016.
- Description
- A black-and-white photograph in a brown cardboard holder. The photo inside is of Lawrence McVey posing in a military uniform, wearing the French Croix de Guerre medal. The photo is embossed [Alva Studio / 2249 SEVENTH AVE. N.Y.]. The inscription, [Forget me not] is handwritten in the top left corner.
- Place made
- New York City, New York, United States, North and Central America
- Classification
- Media Arts-Photography
- Topic
- Military
- Photography
- World War I
- Credit Line
- Collection of the Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture, Gift of Gina R. McVey, Granddaughter
- Object number
- 2011.108.16
- Restrictions & Rights
- Public Domain
-
Letter from the War Department to Cpl. Lawrence Leslie McVey
- Created by
- United States Department of War, American, 1789 - 1947
- Written by
- Maj. Gen. Wahl, Lutz, American, 1869 - 1928
- Received by
- Cpl. McVey,, Lawrence Leslie Sr., American, 1897 - 1968
- Subject of
- 369th Infantry Regiment, American, 1913 - 1945
- Date
- September 17, 1928
- Medium
- ink on paper
- Dimensions
- H x W: 10 1/2 x 8 in. (26.7 x 20.3 cm)
- Caption
- The 369th United States Infantry, nicknamed the “Harlem Hellfighters,” was the first African American regiment of troops to reach the battlefields of World War I. The 369th Regiment was formed from the 15th New York National Guard Regiment and was recognized as part of the U.S. Army on July 15th, 1917. The regiment arrived in Brest, France on January 1st, 1918, being the first African American U.S. soldiers to arrive in France and initially assigned to dam building and stevedores in charge of loading and unloading cargo. The 369th Regiment, due to racial tension within the US Army was assigned to the French Army for the duration of US involvement in WWI. The 369th were the first Allied troops of the war to reach the banks of the Rhine. Upon completion of the 369th’s service in the war, the regiment had spent 191 days in combat, the longest of any American regiment. The entire 369th Regiment, in appreciation for their actions in the Maison-en-Champagne campaign, was given the Croix de Guerre, a medal awarded by the French Government for acts of bravery in conflicts against the enemy. In addition to this honor, 171 individual members of the 369th Regiment were awarded the Croix de Guerre and the Legion of Honor. The 369th Regiment finished their service in Europe and returned to the US in February 1919.
- Description
- A letter from Adjutant General, Major General Lutz Wahl to Corporal Lawrence McVey forwarding the French dispatch awarding the French Croix de Guerre to McVey and asking for a receipt to be returned. The letter is signed by Wahl at the bottom. The letter has been folded multiple times horizontally, three distinct creases can be seen.
- Transcription Center Status
- Transcribed by digital volunteers
- Place made
- Washington, District of Columbia, United States, North and Central America
- Classification
- Documents and Published Materials
- Type
- correspondence
- Credit Line
- Collection of the Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture, Gift of Gina R. McVey, Granddaughter
- Object number
- 2011.108.23
- Restrictions & Rights
- No Known Copyright Restrictions
-
Letter from the War Department to Cpl. Lawrence Leslie McVey
- Created by
- United States Department of War, American, 1789 - 1947
- Received by
- Cpl. McVey,, Lawrence Leslie Sr., American, 1897 - 1968
- Subject of
- 369th Infantry Regiment, American, 1913 - 1945
- Date
- May 16, 1919
- Medium
- ink on paper with plaster
- Dimensions
- H x W: 10 1/2 x 8 in. (26.7 x 20.3 cm)
- Caption
- The 369th United States Infantry, nicknamed the “Harlem Hellfighters,” was the first African American regiment of troops to reach the battlefields of World War I. The 369th Regiment was formed from the 15th New York National Guard Regiment and was recognized as part of the U.S. Army on July 15th, 1917. The regiment arrived in Brest, France on January 1st, 1918, being the first African American U.S. soldiers to arrive in France and initially assigned to dam building and stevedores in charge of loading and unloading cargo. The 369th Regiment, due to racial tension within the US Army was assigned to the French Army for the duration of US involvement in WWI. The 369th were the first Allied troops of the war to reach the banks of the Rhine. Upon completion of the 369th’s service in the war, the regiment had spent 191 days in combat, the longest of any American regiment. The entire 369th Regiment, in appreciation for their actions in the Maison-en-Champagne campaign, was given the Croix de Guerre, a medal awarded by the French Government for acts of bravery in conflicts against the enemy. In addition to this honor, 171 individual members of the 369th Regiment were awarded the Croix de Guerre and the Legion of Honor. The 369th Regiment finished their service in Europe and returned to the US in February 1919.
- Description
- A letter from the Adjutant General to Lawrence McVey announcing the enclosure of a French Croix de Guerre medal with bronze star, citation, and certificate, and asking for a receipt. The document is mounted to sheets of adhesive cloth on the reverse that have the label, [POROUS PLASTER / Manufactured for / LOEWENSTEIN'S PHARMACY].
- Transcription Center Status
- Transcribed by digital volunteers
- Place made
- Washington, District of Columbia, United States, North and Central America
- New York City, New York, United States, North and Central America
- Classification
- Documents and Published Materials
- Type
- correspondence
- Credit Line
- Collection of the Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture, Gift of Gina R. McVey, Granddaughter
- Object number
- 2011.108.24
- Restrictions & Rights
- No Known Copyright Restrictions
-
Obituary for Cpl. Lawrence Leslie McVey
- Written by
- Unidentified
- Subject of
- Cpl. McVey,, Lawrence Leslie Sr., American, 1897 - 1968
- 369th Infantry Regiment, American, 1913 - 1945
- Date
- ca. 1968
- Medium
- ink on paper
- Dimensions
- H x W: 10 1/2 x 7 7/8 in. (26.7 x 20 cm)
- Caption
- The 369th United States Infantry, nicknamed the “Harlem Hellfighters,” was the first African American regiment of troops to reach the battlefields of World War I. The 369th Regiment was formed from the 15th New York National Guard Regiment and was recognized as part of the U.S. Army on July 15th, 1917. The regiment arrived in Brest, France on January 1st, 1918, being the first African American U.S. soldiers to arrive in France and initially assigned to dam building and stevedores in charge of loading and unloading cargo. The 369th Regiment, due to racial tension within the US Army was assigned to the French Army for the duration of US involvement in WWI. The 369th were the first Allied troops of the war to reach the banks of the Rhine. Upon completion of the 369th’s service in the war, the regiment had spent 191 days in combat, the longest of any American regiment. The entire 369th Regiment, in appreciation for their actions in the Maison-en-Champagne campaign, was given the Croix de Guerre, a medal awarded by the French Government for acts of bravery in conflicts against the enemy. In addition to this honor, 171 individual members of the 369th Regiment were awarded the Croix de Guerre and the Legion of Honor. The 369th Regiment finished their service in Europe and returned to the US in February 1919.
- Description
- A family statement honoring the life of Lawrence McVey and offering brief biographical details and a short poem. On the first line, McVey's typewritten birth year has been erased and replaced with the handwritten ink correction [1897] in blue ink. The back is blank
- Transcription Center Status
- Transcribed by digital volunteers
- Classification
- Documents and Published Materials
- Type
- obituaries
- Topic
- Poetry
- World War I
- Credit Line
- Collection of the Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture, Gift of Gina R. McVey, Granddaughter
- Object number
- 2011.108.25
- Restrictions & Rights
- Unknown - Restrictions Possible
-
Badge for sharpshooter-level marksmanship issued to Cpl. Lawrence Leslie McVey
- Designed by
- DuBois, Arthur E., American
- Issued by
- United States Army, American, founded 1775
- Received by
- Cpl. McVey,, Lawrence Leslie Sr., American, 1897 - 1968
- Subject of
- 369th Infantry Regiment, American, 1913 - 1945
- Date
- 1921-1949
- On ViewSmithsonian Castle (1000 Jefferson Dr. NW)
- Medium
- metal
- Dimensions
- H x W x D: 1 x 1 3/8 x 1/4 in. (2.5 x 3.5 x 0.6 cm)
- Caption
- Due to racial tension within the US Army, the 369th Infantry Regiment was assigned to the French Army for the duration of US involvement in World War I. Formed from the 15th New York National Guard Regiment and nicknamed the "Harlem Hellfighters," the 369th was the first African American regiment to reach the battlefields of World War I and the first Allied troops to reach the banks of the Rhine. Upon completion of the 369th’s service in the war, the regiment had spent 191 days in combat, the longest of any American regiment. In appreciation for their actions in the Maison-en-Champagne campaign, the 369th was awarded the Croix de Guerre by the French Government for acts of bravery in conflicts against the enemy. In addition to this honor, 171 individual members of the 369th Regiment were awarded the Croix de Guerre and the Legion of Honor. The 369th Regiment finished their service in Europe and returned to the US in February 1919.
- Description
- Badge for sharpshooter-level marksmanship issued to Corporal Lawrence Leslie McVey. The badge is in the shape of a cross with a bulls-eye in the center. Three clasps hang from the badge by circular hinges. The first identifies expert level as [SHARP SHOOTER]. The following two are the Army Weapon Qualification clasps for the [M-1] and the [B.A.R.]. The back has two butterfly clutch pins on each horizontal end.
- Place made
- United States, North and Central America
- Classification
- Awards and Medals
- Type
- medals
- Topic
- Military
- World War II
- Credit Line
- Collection of the Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture, Gift of Gina R. McVey, Granddaughter
- Object number
- 2011.108.4
- Restrictions & Rights
- No Known Copyright Restrictions
-
Purple Heart medal issued to Cpl. Lawrence Leslie McVey
- Issued by
- United States Army, American, founded 1775
- Received by
- Cpl. McVey,, Lawrence Leslie Sr., American, 1897 - 1968
- Subject of
- 369th Infantry Regiment, American, 1913 - 1945
- Date
- 1932-1940
- Medium
- gold and enamel on metal with silk (textile)
- Dimensions
- H x W: 3 1/8 x 1 1/2 x 1/4
- Caption
- Due to racial tension within the US Army, the 369th Infantry Regiment was assigned to the French Army for the duration of US involvement in World War I. Formed from the 15th New York National Guard Regiment and nicknamed the "Harlem Hellfighters," the 369th was the first African American regiment to reach the battlefields of World War I and the first Allied troops to reach the banks of the Rhine. Upon completion of the 369th’s service in the war, the regiment had spent 191 days in combat, the longest of any American regiment. In appreciation for their actions in the Maison-en-Champagne campaign, the 369th was awarded the Croix de Guerre by the French Government for acts of bravery in conflicts against the enemy. In addition to this honor, 171 individual members of the 369th Regiment were awarded the Croix de Guerre and the Legion of Honor. The 369th Regiment finished their service in Europe and returned to the US in February 1919.
- Description
- The Purple Heart issued for Corporal Lawrence Leslie McVey features a gold heart with an image of George Washington on a ribbon. The ribbon is purple with white edges. The ribbon is connected to a gold pinback through an opening on top of the pin. The bottom of the pin is sewn with white thread to the ribbon. The medal hangs from its ribbon by a rectangular metal loop with rounded corners. The heart is gold plated with a purple interior heart containing a profile of General George Washington. Above the heart is the shield of George Washington's coat of arms; a white shield with two red bars and three red stars above, between branches of green leaves. The back of the medal has a raised relief heart with the words, [FOR / MILITARY / MERIT / LAWRENCE McVEY] below the raised relief coat of arms and leaves. The medal is very worn and has scratches and areas of loss throughout.
- Place made
- United States, North and Central America
- Classification
- Awards and Medals
- Type
- medals
- Topic
- Military
- World War I
- Credit Line
- Collection of the Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture, Gift of Gina R. McVey, Granddaughter
- Object number
- 2011.108.7
- Restrictions & Rights
- No Known Copyright Restrictions
-
CC0
V19244--Colored Veterans of the 15th Regt. 369th Infantry, Marching up Fifth Avenue, New York City
- Created by
- Underwood & Underwood, American, 1881 - 1940s
- Published by
- Keystone View Company, American, 1892 - 1972
- Subject of
- 369th Infantry Regiment, American, 1913 - 1945
- Date
- 1919
- Medium
- silver and photographic gelatin on photographic paper and cardboard
- Dimensions
- H x W (Mount): 3 1/2 x 7 in. (8.9 x 17.8 cm)
- Title
- Stereograph of homecoming parade for the "Harlem Hellfighters"
- Description
- A stereograph produced by the Keystone View Company of an outdoor military scene titled: "V19244 Colored Veterans of the 15th Regt. 369th Infantry, Marching up Fifth Avenue. New York City" below the image. The stereograph is rectangular in shape with two identical albumen photographs that are square-shaped with a curved top edge attached to a gray piece of cardboard. Both images feature the 15th Regiment of the 369th U.S. Infantry in a military formation marching down Fifth Avenue in New York City. Crowds have gathered on either side of the street to view the parade. The left edge of the stereograph contains the following textual information: "Keystone View Company, Manufacturers and Publishers/ Copyrighted, Underwood & Underwood/ MADE IN U.S.A." while the right side contains the following textual information: "Meadville, Pa./ New York, NY./ Portland, Oregon/ London, Eng./ Sydney, Aus.". The back of the stereograph contains a long narrative text describing the event depicted in the photograph. At the top right hand corner inside of a rectangular box is the following information: "SERIES/ 36/ 48/ 100/ 200/ 300 POSITION [BLANK]/ 47/ 99/ 199/ 299".
- Transcription Center Status
- Transcribed by digital volunteers
- Place depicted
- 5th Avenue and East 39th Street, New York City, New York, United States, North and Central America
- Classification
- Media Arts-Photography
- Type
- stereographs
- Topic
- Military
- Photography
- World War I
- Credit Line
- Collection of the Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture
- Object number
- 2011.155.177
- Restrictions & Rights
- Public Domain