PORTSMOUTH, Va. (WAVY) – The USNS Montford Point is named to honor the first group of African Americans to join the Marine Corps from 1942 through the end of WWII. Recently, the ship’s crew welcomed aboard family members of the original Montford Point Marines to see how the ship continues their legacy.

During the visit, the group walked the decks and passageways that honor the marines with historical tributes. The Montford Marines broke down racial barriers even before the Civil Rights Era of the 1950’s and 1960’s and played an integral part in winning WWII.

In 2011, President Barack Obama awarded the Congressional Gold Medal to the Montford Point Marines. There are about 400 original Montford Point Marines still living today, their legacy continuing to inspire Black men and women to serve their country.

This segment of The Hampton Roads Show is sponsored by McDonald’s of Hampton Roads and Northeast North Carolina.