In a long-awaited moment of recognition, World War II combat medic Waverly Woodson Jr. has been posthumously awarded the Distinguished Service Cross for his heroic actions on D-Day. Woodson, a member of the 320th Barrage Balloon Battalion, was one of the many unsung Black heroes who served valiantly during the war. Despite the monumental contributions of Black soldiers, their stories have often been overlooked in historical accounts.

On June 6, 1944, the day of the Normandy landings, Woodson performed extraordinary feats of bravery. He treated wounded soldiers for 30 continuous hours, even while suffering from serious injuries himself. His tireless efforts saved countless lives and exemplified the utmost courage under fire.

Woodson was initially nominated for the Medal of Honor in the summer of 1944, the highest military decoration for valor in the United States. However, he did not receive it, and during World War II, no Black soldiers were awarded the Medal of Honor. This denial of recognition was symptomatic of the racial climate and practices within the Army at the time. A study commissioned during the Clinton administration later confirmed that Black soldiers had been unfairly denied opportunities and honors due to institutional racism.

Senator Chris Van Hollen has been a tireless advocate for Woodson’s posthumous recognition. In a recent announcement, Van Hollen shared the news of Woodson being awarded the Distinguished Service Cross, the second-highest military decoration that can be bestowed upon a member of the Army. While the honor is significant, many feel that it is still an incomplete recognition of Woodson’s heroism.

Woodson was buried at Arlington National Cemetery in 2005, but his legacy continues to live on. His wife, Joann Woodson, along with their family and supporters, have persistently advocated for the Medal of Honor to be awarded to him. The family's efforts are part of a broader movement to ensure that Black service members receive the recognition they deserve.

Woodson's actions and the efforts to honor him also carry a broader historical significance. The 320th Barrage Balloon Battalion, his unit, was the only Black combat unit that landed with the infantry on Omaha Beach on D-Day. Despite their pivotal role, the stories of these soldiers were notably absent from many historical accounts and films about D-Day and World War II. This exclusion reflects a broader narrative of omission that has often marginalized the contributions of Black fighters.

Joann Woodson will soon see her husband's story featured in the docuseries "Erased: WW2's Heroes of Color," narrated by Idris Elba and airing on National Geographic TV. This series aims to rectify some of the historical oversights and bring to the forefront the stories of color that have been minimized or ignored.

Before enlisting in the Army in December 1942, Waverly Woodson was a premedical student in Pennsylvania. His commitment to saving lives on the battlefield stemmed from his medical aspirations, highlighting another layer of his dedication and bravery.

The announcement of the Distinguished Service Cross serves as a significant, albeit overdue, recognition of Woodson's heroism. While the award stands as a testament to his valor, the journey for full acknowledgment remains ongoing. Woodson's story and the advocacy around it shed light on the broader struggles for recognition that Black soldiers have faced, both during and after the war.

As we continue to reflect on the sacrifices and contributions of soldiers like Waverly Woodson Jr., it's imperative to honor their legacies fully and accurately. The journey of recognition for these heroes of color continues, driven by the unwavering efforts of their families, supporters, and champions of justice.