The 92nd Infantry ("Buffalo") Division was the last segregated (all-black) U.S. Army division and the only black division to fight in World War II in Europe. The few media references to the division have reflected generally unfavorable contemporary evaluations by white commanders. The present work reflects an analysis of numerous records and interviews that refute the negative impressions and demonstrate that these 13,500 soldiers gained their share of victories under hardships no others were expected to meet. This work examines the contributions of black soldiers in World War II, focusing on their history and traditions, pre-combat operations, a variety of campaigns in which they were involved, and awards.

Origins and Traditions --The First Buffalo Soldiers -- Buffalo Soldiers in World War I -- Struggle for Identity -- Preparation for Combat -- Festering Turbulence -- Pre-Combat Operations -- The 370th Combat Team Lands -- Allied Situation in Italy -- The Allied Offensive Plan -- Fifth Army Plan -- From the Arno to the Gothic Line -- First Blood -- First Score-Card -- A New Battle Arena--New Line-Ups -- Balance of the 92nd Division Arrives -- The 365th Combat Team Is Committed -- Back to the 371st -- 370th Combat Team--Heavy Action in the Serchio Valley -- The 366th Infantry Regiment Enters the Fray -- An Abundance of Heroes -- The Battles for the Serchio Valley -- Probing and Harassing the Enemy -- Increased Activity in the Serchio Valley -- Surprise Enemy Counterattack in the Serchio Valley -- Opening Moves -- Action on the Left Bank -- Delays in Support Dispositions -- Action on 27 December--East of the River -- Operations in the Coastal Sector -- Aftermath -- February Attack in Coastal Sector -- Plan Fourth Term -- Diversion in the Serchio Valley -- The Main Attack Begins--8 February -- The 370th Infantry Attack on Strettoia Hills -- The 371st Reaches for the Higher Ground -- The 366th--Ordeal on the Plains -- The Second Day of Battle--9 February -- The 371st Continues the Attack -- The 366th Fights On -- The Third Day of Battle--10 February -- The 371st Continues to Reach Forward -- The Last Battle for the 366th -- The 371st Clings to the Ridge Line--11 February -- Elements of 370th and 371st Give Ground.