In 2020, Luther Hendricks (on the left) received an honorary high school diploma from The Solano County Office of Education. (Photo: American Legion Headquarters)
Luther Hendricks, a World War II Veteran and a member of The American Legion Manuel Quezon Post 603, is celebrating his 99th birthday this month.
Born in Denver, Colorado, Hendricks found himself in Los Angeles as a teenager when the attack on Pearl Harbor occurred. Determined to defend his country, he sought enlistment following President Roosevelt’s declaration of war on Japan.
However, Hendricks encountered a harsh reality upon his attempts to join the U.S. Marine Corps. Despite his eagerness to serve, the discriminatory policies of the time barred Black Americans from enlisting. Undeterred, Hendricks persisted, awaiting the opportunity to fight for his country rather than taking on service roles in other branches. It wasn’t until 1942 that the Marine Corps opened its doors to Black American enlistees. By 1943, at the age of 18, Hendricks became one of the first Black Marines, undergoing training at the segregated Montford Point, which is now recognized as Camp Johnson, adjacent to Camp Lejeune.
Life at Montford Point was marked by substandard conditions and pervasive racism. While Hendricks’ white counterparts trained in superior facilities nearby, Black Marines endured grueling training and faced discrimination both on and off the base. Despite these challenges, Hendricks and his fellow Marines remained steadfast in their commitment to serve.
Following training, Hendricks embarked on a tour of duty in the Pacific Theater, participating in historical battles such as the Philippines, Saipan, Guam, Iwo Jima, and Okinawa. Despite the horrors of war, coupled with the indignities of segregation, Hendricks, proud of his service, remained focused on the mission and determined to defeat the enemy.
Upon returning home, Hendricks continued to confront segregation and discrimination. Despite facing closed doors and limited opportunities, he persevered. Settling in Vallejo, California, he carved out a successful career as an electrician and painter, before eventually retiring after years of service. It wasn’t until later in life that Hendricks realized the lasting impact of his wartime experiences, grappling with symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder.
In 2012, his service was finally recognized with the Congressional Gold Medal, acknowledging the perseverance, patriotism, and courage of the Montford Point Marines. Reflecting on the honor, Hendricks, who paved the way for future generations of Black Servicemen, acknowledges the progress made in racial equality but recognizes that there is still work to be done.
Today, as he approaches his 99th birthday, Hendricks is a great-great grandfather and cherishes moments with his family. He urges Americans to remember the sacrifices of the Montford Point Marines and all those who served during World War II.
Author: Rikki Almanza
Rikki is a Web Content Coordinator for the American Legion, Department of California. With a deep-rooted connection to the military, a spouse who is a Navy veteran, a father who served in the Air Force for 25 years, and a grandfather who proudly served, Rikki is committed to using her skills and knowledge to provide valuable assistance and resources to servicemembers and veterans.
