THIS WE’LL DEFEND: The Texas 6888th Project and the Texas 369th Project.



THIS WE’LL DEFEND



By Pastor Kyev P. Tatum, Sr., Publisher, Black Texans, Inc.


The Texas 6888th Project and the Texas 369th Project are more than just history initiatives—they are movements of memory, mission, and meaning. Both were born out of a sacred calling to educate, elevate, and enumerate the heroic achievements of two trailblazing African American military units: the 6888th Central Postal Directory Battalion and the 369th Infantry Regiment, the Harlem Hellfighters.


These units, long overlooked in mainstream narratives, have now received the nation’s highest civilian honor—the Congressional Gold Medal. Yet their stories remain urgent reminders for us as Black Texans. They prove that our legacy is not one of silence or shadows, but of service, sacrifice, and strength.



Over 355 sons of Texas marched with the 369th in World War I, and 44 daughters of Texas donned the uniform of the 6888th in World War II. Together, they broke barriers of race and gender, carved a path of honor on foreign soil, and carried the banner of democracy with dignity and distinction.



When the invitations arrived for us to attend the Congressional Gold Medal ceremonies in Washington, D.C., first for the 6888th in April 2025 and now for the 369th on September 3, 2025, it was more than an honor—it was a responsibility. A responsibility to stand in their stead, to tell their stories, and to make sure their sacrifices are forever etched into the heart of Texas history.




Major Accomplishments of the Texas 6888th Project and Texas 369th Project

• 2017 – Advocated for and secured a Texas House Resolution honoring the 369th Infantry Regiment, one of the earliest formal recognitions of the Harlem Hellfighters in the state.

• April 4, 2025 – Attended the Congressional Gold Medal Ceremony in Washington, D.C. for the 6888th Central Postal Directory Battalion, honoring the women warriors who served with unmatched excellence.

• 2025 – Partnered with the City of Fort Worth to pass a City Resolution recognizing the 6888th Battalion and the three members from Fort Worth who served with distinction.

• September 3, 2025 – Formally invited to attend the Congressional Gold Medal Ceremony for the 369th Infantry Regiment, honoring the valor of the Harlem Hellfighters.

• 2025 – The City of Luling, Texas, passed a historic resolution recognizing the 369th Infantry Regiment and honoring one of its native sons, Private Joseph Ulyses Lamkin, who fought with the Harlem Hellfighters in World War I.




Each of these victories is a step forward in a long march toward justice and recognition. They are proof that when we work together, we can reclaim our history, restore our dignity, and reaffirm our place in America’s story.





About the Author


Pastor Kyev P. Tatum, Sr. is the Founder of the Texas 6888th Project and the Texas 369th Project, Pastor of New Mount Rose Missionary Baptist Church in Fort Worth, Texas, and President of the Ministers Justice Coalition of Texas. A graduate of the University of North Texas School of Community Service, Pastor Tatum is a pastor, activist, educator, and visionary leader who has dedicated his life to faith-fueled freedom to learn, lead, and lift the next generation.


Through initiatives like Skills City, USA, Camp Buffalo Soldiers, and his ongoing advocacy for African American military history, Pastor Tatum is committed to ensuring that the sacrifices of Black Texans are never forgotten—but are taught, celebrated, and enshrined for generations to come.


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✦ Black Texans, Inc. is proud to lift up the voices of those who carried the fight for freedom abroad while battling discrimination at home. This is our story, our struggle, and our strength.


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