The African American Civil War Memorial Freedom Foundation has announced that the Memorial Wall of Honor, which lists the names of 209,145 Black soldiers and their white officers has been recognized as “Most Names on a War Memorial” by the Guinness Book of World Records.

Frank Smith, founding director of the African American Civil War Memorial Freedom Foundation, who sought Congressional Authority and partnered with the District of Columbia Government and the public to raise the money to build the Memorial Wall of Honor said, “We have worked hard since 1998 to research the names and place them on stainless steel plaques for all to see and the Guinness recognition makes the recognition worldwide.”

Smith also added, “At a time when America is debating the great values of democracy, it is good to have international recognition for the USCT (United States Colored Troops), many of whom gave what President Lincoln would call ‘Their Full Measure’ in defense of Freedom and Union in the American Civil War.

“The prestigious Guinness recognition is truly great for our own institution that so comprehensively recognizes the Black Union soldiers and their white allies of the Civil War. Now the entire world may fully understand its importance” said Ward One DC Councilmember Brianne Nadeau in whose ward the monument is located.

The African American Civil War Memorial Wall of Honor is located at Vermont Avenue and U Streets in Washington, D.C. It sits on federal land and is under the jurisdiction of the National Park Service.

The memorial is accompanied by a museum that sits across the street and is currently closed for a $8 million renovation scheduled to be completed in the fall of this year.

Support the New Americans magazine to continue to serve our community with precise news that affect the new American, immigrant and refugee community. https://paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=8LHFS78NRNJJY&source=url