James Reese Europe and Horace Pippen
Two backstories are illustrated by the musical genius of the regiment’s leader, James Reese Europe
and artist Horace Pippen.
Horace Pippen injured during his time as a Harlem Hellfighter, taught himself how to adapt, and continued to paint after returning home. His letters and notes are archived in the Smithsonian.
http://www.biography.com/people/horace-pippin-9441456
Europe’s demise was a tragedy on many levels. Europe’s interpersonal and leadership skills were thought to be the catalyst that could help influence the integration of the American military. And some historians believe his death delayed the process for decades.
References
James Reese Europe & The Hellfighters Band
http://www.worldwar1.com/dbc/hhf.htm
Brendan McNalley, Nazis & Dinosaurs
Lieutenant James Reese Europe
http://tinyurl.com/lu58ceo
Defense Media Network.com
“Lt. James Reese Europe:
The World Catches Jazz Fever,
Compliments of the U.S. Army”
http://tinyurl.com/n28mcon
Horace Pippin notebooks and letters, circa 1920, 1943.
Archives of American Art, Smithsonian Institution.
http://tinyurl.com/pmyxwu4
A More Unending Battle:
The Harlem Hellfighters Struggle for Freedom in WWI…
http://tinyurl.com/o8e6scm
Amsterdamnews.com? Harlem Hellfighters finally awarded Congressional Gold Medal. http://amsterdamnews.com/news/2021/sep/02/harlem-hellfighters-finally-awarded-congressional-/
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