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  • Topic
    • Military 22 [-]
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  • name:"369th Infantry Regiment"
Your search found 23 result(s).
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  • CC0 Creative Commons - No Rights Reserved icon

    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
    Usage
    CC0
    GUID
    http://n2t.net/ark:/65665/fd5dd2a5572-44d2-4c69-a635-b6df80405ad9
  • CC0 Creative Commons - No Rights Reserved icon

    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
    Place made
    France, Europe
    Classification
    Documents and Published Materials
    Type
    orders (military records)
    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
    Usage
    CC0
    GUID
    http://n2t.net/ark:/65665/fd5fe7af8a2-00c3-4851-9134-8fe42f547754
  • CC0 Creative Commons - No Rights Reserved icon

    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
    Type
    orders (military records)
    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
    Usage
    CC0
    GUID
    http://n2t.net/ark:/65665/fd593912485-6107-47e3-a528-6139344617c4
  • CC0 Creative Commons - No Rights Reserved icon

    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
    Type
    orders (military records)
    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
    Usage
    CC0
    GUID
    http://n2t.net/ark:/65665/fd5c98549c8-2ace-4eb0-83e7-01c1fa4442c4
  • 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
    Usage
    Not determined
    GUID
    http://n2t.net/ark:/65665/fd5646c1462-97c8-49b8-9b94-86d375007b91
  • CC0 Creative Commons - No Rights Reserved icon

    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 View
    Community/Third Floor, 3 053
    Exhibition
    Double Victory: The African American Military Experience
    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
    Type
    gelatin silver prints
    portraits
    photographic postcards
    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
    Usage
    CC0
    GUID
    http://n2t.net/ark:/65665/fd57e657968-76ae-4c31-942b-190833f65ced
  • 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
    Usage
    Not determined
    GUID
    http://n2t.net/ark:/65665/fd5cbaef01e-eb65-4ab3-8418-fe21dc892ddc
  • 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
    Usage
    Not determined
    GUID
    http://n2t.net/ark:/65665/fd5e05f8e24-cd54-4b44-94ce-fe7d0967d3c0
  • 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].
    Place made
    France, Europe
    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
    Usage
    Not determined
    GUID
    http://n2t.net/ark:/65665/fd5890899f8-fe87-4310-8220-9c311a599fbf
  • CC0 Creative Commons - No Rights Reserved icon

    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 View
    Community/Third Floor, 3 053
    Exhibition
    Double Victory: The African American Military Experience
    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].
    Place made
    France, Europe
    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
    Usage
    CC0
    GUID
    http://n2t.net/ark:/65665/fd5a662bad2-eb09-4e4b-a1c3-066f37c24d6c
  • CC0 Creative Commons - No Rights Reserved icon

    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
    Place made
    France, Europe
    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
    Usage
    CC0
    GUID
    http://n2t.net/ark:/65665/fd566a344d9-638b-4300-a502-8b6ebbc8f342
  • CC0 Creative Commons - No Rights Reserved icon

    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
    Type
    gelatin silver prints
    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
    Usage
    CC0
    GUID
    http://n2t.net/ark:/65665/fd56ac5efdd-f211-45f8-98d6-dd4a2cc6512d
  • CC0 Creative Commons - No Rights Reserved icon

    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.
    Place made
    France, Europe
    Classification
    Media Arts-Photography
    Type
    portraits
    photographic postcards
    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
    Usage
    CC0
    GUID
    http://n2t.net/ark:/65665/fd516420f63-04f5-4bd8-9bd7-aebf978e4c85
  • CC0 Creative Commons - No Rights Reserved icon

    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
    Type
    gelatin silver prints
    portraits
    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
    Usage
    CC0
    GUID
    http://n2t.net/ark:/65665/fd5b404689c-6934-4e45-8041-0cb0c0ad6344
  • 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
    Topic
    Correspondence
    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
    2011.108.23
    Restrictions & Rights
    No Known Copyright Restrictions
    Usage
    Not determined
    GUID
    http://n2t.net/ark:/65665/fd51d89c44d-54a2-4050-9f98-6e6b93ec4728
  • 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
    Topic
    Correspondence
    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
    2011.108.24
    Restrictions & Rights
    No Known Copyright Restrictions
    Usage
    Not determined
    GUID
    http://n2t.net/ark:/65665/fd5bed2f01b-a4da-4781-9b57-082052bba641
  • 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
    Usage
    Usage conditions apply
    GUID
    http://n2t.net/ark:/65665/fd57b305db1-b56d-467d-8343-0e8e087e7a4d
  • 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 View
    Smithsonian 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
    Usage
    CC0
    GUID
    http://n2t.net/ark:/65665/fd5f7378f29-1dbc-4870-ae86-8c72322c27c4
  • 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
    Usage
    Not determined
    GUID
    http://n2t.net/ark:/65665/fd5438bc607-ade0-4bd2-90dd-26eff0d5ef93
  • CC0 Creative Commons - No Rights Reserved icon

    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
    Usage
    CC0
    GUID
    http://n2t.net/ark:/65665/fd5f16c9e5d-ae2c-40d5-be8e-96d023896db1

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