Osceola “Ozzie” Fletcher is an African-American World War II veteran who, like so many other black Americans, fought for this country while also fighting against racism. Unfortunately, black service members were often not treated the same as their white counterparts regardless of the sacrifices they made.
Ozzie was seriously injured in the Battle of Normandy in 1944. He should have received a Purple Heart for this. He was, however, denied for decades because black soldiers were not classified the same way as whites.
In 2021, nearly 80 years later, he finally received the Purple Heart he earned so long ago. No longer the young man he was when he served, Ozzie didn’t see his Purple Heart until he was 99. Read the full story here.
Not only did Fletcher eventually receive his Purple Heart, but the French government awarded him the Insignia of Chevalier of the Order of the Legion of Honor in February of 2022 for his efforts to liberate France. Sadly, Osceola “Ozzie” Fletcher passed away only 9 months later.
We remember and thank Ozzie for his incredible service, and also take a moment to reflect. This hero almost didn’t live to see the recognition he deserved. Now, in 2024, we must ask ourselves, how many others are still waiting, and for how many, is it already too late?
Remember and honor the service of those great heroes who are still with us while we still can.
We are working with our partners in Congress to pass legislation that would change the lives of older Americans who gave the most for our freedoms. Learn more here.