Grenada Invasion

Grenada Invasion — Operation Urgent Fury, 1983

On October 25, 1983, the United States launched Operation Urgent Fury — a rapid military intervention on the Caribbean island of Grenada. It was America's first major combat operation since Vietnam, and African American soldiers, sailors, airmen, and Marines served in every branch and at every level of the operation.

The Operation

  • 82nd Airborne Division — spearheaded the airborne assault on Point Salines airfield, with significant Black troop participation
  • 75th Ranger Regiment — led the initial assault alongside special operations forces
  • Navy SEALs & Special Operations Forces — conducted reconnaissance and high-risk missions throughout the island
  • Marine Amphibious Unit — secured the northern part of the island including Pearls Airport

Significance

Operation Urgent Fury marked a turning point for the post-Vietnam U.S. military — demonstrating that America's newly restructured, all-volunteer, integrated force could project power rapidly and decisively. Black soldiers were integral to that proof of concept.

18 Americans gave their lives during the operation. Their sacrifice, and the service of all who participated, deserves to be remembered.

Our Grenada Invasion collection honors those who answered the call in 1983.

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