Alfred Masters facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Alfred Masters
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| Born | February 5, 1916 Palestine, Texas |
| Died | June 16, 1975 (aged 59) Anthony, New Mexico |
| Buried |
Fort Bliss National Cemetery
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| Rank | Technical Sergeant |
| Unit | United States Marine Corps |
| Spouse(s) | Isabell Masters (divorced), Mary Hendricks |
Alfred Masters (February 5, 1916 – June 16, 1975) was an American hero who made history. He was the very first African American person to join the United States Marine Corps. This important event happened on June 1, 1942, in Oklahoma City. His first training camp was at Montford Point in North Carolina. Masters bravely served his country and rose to the rank of Technical Sergeant.
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Alfred Masters: A Marine Corps Pioneer
Alfred Masters was born on February 5, 1916. His hometown was Palestine, Texas. His decision to join the Marine Corps in 1942 was a big step forward. At that time, the United States military was still segregated. This meant that African American soldiers often served in separate units. They also faced many challenges.
Making History: The First African American Marine
When Alfred Masters joined, he became the first African American to enlist in the U.S. Marine Corps. This was a major moment for civil rights and equality in the military. It opened the door for many other African Americans to serve in the Marines. These brave individuals became known as the Montford Point Marines. They trained at Camp Montford Point, which was a special camp for African American recruits.
Family Life
Alfred Masters was married twice and had several children. His first marriage was to Isabell Masters. They had three daughters together: Shirley Jean, Alfreda Dean, and Cora Lavonne Masters. This marriage ended in divorce in the 1940s.
Isabell Masters later became a well-known educator. She also ran for U.S. president five times. One of their daughters, Cora, married politician Marion Barry in 1994.
In 1949, Alfred Masters married Mary Hendricks. They had five children together. These included three girls: Mary Ann Masters, Kathryn Louise Masters, and Carolyn Donata Masters Faulkner. They also had two boys: Otto Joe Masters and Alfred Dan Masters.
Later Life and Legacy
Alfred Masters passed away on June 16, 1975. He died in Anthony, New Mexico. He was buried at Fort Bliss National Cemetery in El Paso, Texas. Alfred Masters is remembered for his courage and for breaking barriers. His enlistment helped pave the way for a more equal and diverse military.
