Benjamin O. Davis, Sr., born July 1, 1877 in Washington, DC, became the first African American to be promoted to brigadier general in the US Army. He graduated from Howard University in 1898, and joined the 8th volunteer Infantry for the Spanish-American War, receiving a commission as a first lieutenant.
He joined the regular army as a private and then became a on-commissioned officer. In 1901, he was appointed second lieutenant of Cavalry. He served in the Philippine-American War and Wrold War I. Despite racism and being passed over for promotions, he was promoted to Colonel in 1930.
Davis's accomplishments led him to be promoted to brigadier general and commanded the 4th Cavalry Brigade, 2nd Cavalry Division. He retired in 1948 and passed away in November 1970.
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