The last segregated unit in the United States Army was the US 24th Infantry Regiment, which fought in Korea between 1950 and 1951. The unit fought with inferior equipment and training, and was doomed to misfortune. Being Black, they were expected to fail. When they did fail, few looked beyond race to find the reasons.

This 4,000-member regiment, commanded by White officers, was ordered disbanded in 1951 as inept and untrustworthy. The 24th fought as well as any combat unit out there, and was cited for at least six documented victories.