GameDay Network
The Golden 13: How Black Naval Heroes Overcame Historic Odds
February 4, 2025
In Focus
Explore the saga of the Golden 13, the first African American officers in US Navy history, who surpassed expectations with top marks despite facing racism.
In 1944, despite prevalent racial discrimination, 16 African American sailors enrolled in officer training, aiming to become the first black officers in the U.S. Navy. Known as the Golden 13, these men faced condensed training periods and skepticism from their superiors. Remarkably, they excelled, posting some of the highest scores ever recorded, proving their competence under pressure. Their success not only marked a significant milestone in military history but also set new standards for persistence and teamwork among servicemen, inspiring future generations.
