State Historical Society of Iowa

803rd Pioneer Infantry Band on the U.S.S. Philippines, 1919

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Courtesy of Library of Congress, "803rd Pioneer Infantry Band, No. 16," 1919

Description

This 1919 photograph is of the 803rd Pioneer Infantry Band playing on board the U.S.S. Philippine in Brest Harbor, France. The 803rd was an African American band that played for French and American troops during their military service overseas. The photograph shows the band surrounded by other soldiers.

Source Dependent Questions

  • What contributions by African American to the war effort do you see in this photo?
  • How would music be a contribution to a war effort? Consider what you know about the role of music at athletic events in your response.

Citation Information

"803rd Pioneer Infantry Band, No. 16," 1919. Courtesy of Library of Congress Courtesy of Library of Congress