Frederic E. Davison facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Frederic Ellis Davison
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| Born | September 28, 1917 Washington, D.C., United States |
| Died | January 24, 1999 (aged 81) Walter Reed Army Medical Center, Washington, D.C., United States |
| Buried |
Arlington National Cemetery, Virginia, United States
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| Allegiance |  United States |
| Service/ |
 United States Army |
| Years of service | 1938–1974 |
| Rank |  Major General |
| Unit |  Infantry Branch |
| Commands held | 199th Light Infantry Brigade 8th Infantry Division |
| Battles/wars | World War II Vietnam War |
| Awards | Army Distinguished Service Medal Legion of Merit Bronze Star |
Major General Frederic Ellis Davison (born September 28, 1917 – died January 24, 1999) was an important officer in the United States Army. He made history as the first African American to reach the high rank of major general. He was also the first African American to lead an entire army division. Davison fought bravely in World War II and later commanded the 199th Light Infantry Brigade during the Vietnam War.
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Early Life and Education
Frederic Ellis Davison was born in Washington, D.C. on September 28, 1917. His parents were Sue Bright Davison and Ellis Charles Davison. He went to Dunbar High School. After that, he studied at Howard University, finishing his degree in 1938. He continued his studies and earned a master's degree in chemistry and zoology in 1940.
Military Career
Davison began his military journey in March 1939. He became a Second Lieutenant through the Reserve Officers' Training Corps program. In March 1941, he started active duty. His first job was leading a group of soldiers in the 366th Infantry Regiment. This unit was part of the 92nd Infantry Division, which was a special army division for Black soldiers at that time.
Serving in World War II
In September 1943, nearly two years after the United States joined World War II, Davison took command of Company H, 366th Infantry. Soon after, the 92nd Division was sent to Europe. They took part in the Italian Campaign. During the war, he held different leadership roles. He ended the war commanding Company B, 1st Battalion, 371st Infantry Regiment.
After World War II
Davison returned to the United States in November 1945. He was placed on inactive duty in March 1946. However, he was called back to active duty in August 1947. He was given command of Company D, 1st Battalion, 365th Infantry Regiment. In April 1952, he moved to West Germany. There, he joined the 370th Armored Infantry Battalion. He first worked as an operations officer, helping to plan army actions. Later, he became an executive officer, a senior leadership role. He also continued his education, attending the United States Army Command and General Staff College in 1954 and the United States Army War College in 1962.
Leading in the Vietnam War
Colonel Davison was acting commander of the 199th Light Infantry Brigade. This brigade was based at Long Binh Post in Vietnam. He was in command when the Tet Offensive began on January 31, 1968. This was a major surprise attack by the enemy. Davison bravely led his soldiers during the battles at Bien Hoa and Long Binh. He officially became the brigade commander in August 1968. In September 1968, he was promoted to Brigadier General. He was only the second African American to reach this rank.
Later Career and Retirement
In April 1971, Davison was promoted again, this time to major general. This was a very important achievement. In May 1972, he was given command of the 8th Infantry Division. This made him the first African American to lead an entire army division. His final assignment began in November 1973. He became the commander of the Washington Military District.
Davison retired from the Army in 1974. After his military career, he worked as an executive assistant at Howard University until 1985. He passed away on January 24, 1999. He was buried at Arlington National Cemetery, a special place for American heroes.
