Frederic E. Davison
1917–1999 (age 82)
U.S. Marine Corps officer
Biography
Frederic E. Davison broke barriers as the first African American to attain the rank of general in the U.S. Marine Corps, serving with distinction in World War II, Korea, and Vietnam. His leadership on the battlefield and his unshakable commitment to equality set a powerful example for all Marines.
Davison later worked tirelessly to mentor younger officers and to ensure that the Corps upheld the values of opportunity and excellence, a legacy honored by his final resting place at Arlington National Cemetery.