JACKSONVILLE, N.C., July 29 (UPI) -- The Montford Point Marines, the first black servicemen to serve in the U.S. Marine Corps, will be honored Friday with a national memorial at Camp Lejeune, N.C.
The $1.4 million memorial is intended to recognize the approximately 20,000 Marines who, between 1942 and 1949, went through basic training at Montford Point at Camp Lejeune in preparation for battle during World War II and the Korean War. Hundreds of people, including 45 Montford Point Marines and their families, are expected to attend the dedication, which is taking place during the 51st National Convention of the National Montford Point Memorial Association.