Description:

ALL-BLACK 372ND INFANTRY OFFICER'S MEDAL GROUPING
An important set of three American medals, including a Purple Heart named to a black officer of the distinguished 372nd Infantry Regiment. The medals once belonged to First Lieutenant Irvin R. Johnston (born in Mississippi, 1876), and the Purple Heart included bears his name in a period engraving on the reverse, numbered on the lower left rim 942. Also present is Johnston's World War I Victory Medal with Meuse-Argonne clasp and one battle star, as well as his French 1914-1918 Victory Medal, also with one battle star. This medal lacks its pin, and the others have worn ribbons and finishes, as Johnston no doubt proudly wore them for many years. Johnston rose through the ranks following his first service with the 9th Battalion, Ohio National Guard in May, 1898, remaining in the service largely in a transport company until he and his unit, the all-black 372nd Infantry Regiment, were sent to France. The 372nd Infantry was seconded, along with the 371st Infantry Regiment, to the 157th Infantry Division of the French Army, called the 'Red Hand Division'. The regiment fought with great distinction in the Champagne–Marne region (28 September-7 October 1918) and the Meuse–Argonne offensive. On Jan. 22, 1918 Johnston was promoted to First Lieutenant of Infantry, and at some time thereafter was grievously wounded for which he was awarded the Purple Heart. He recovered and was discharged on May 14, 1919. A very rare black officer's medal group!

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June 27, 2025 10:00 AM EDT
Elkton, MD, US

Alexander Historical Auctions LLC

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