Iraq War

Iraq War — Black Soldiers in Operation Iraqi Freedom & Operation New Dawn

On March 20, 2003, the United States launched Operation Iraqi Freedom — beginning one of the longest and most complex military campaigns in American history. African American soldiers, sailors, airmen, Marines, and special operators served at every level of the conflict, from the initial invasion to the final drawdown in 2011.

Key Units & Contributions

  • 3rd Infantry Division — led the ground assault to Baghdad in the initial invasion, with significant Black troop participation across all brigades
  • 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault) — air assault operations throughout Iraq, including the Battle of Mosul
  • 1st Cavalry Division — urban combat operations in Baghdad and the Sunni Triangle, one of the most dangerous assignments of the war
  • 4th Infantry Division — operations in the Sunni Triangle and capture of Saddam Hussein
  • Sergeant First Class Paul Ray Smith — Medal of Honor recipient, the first awarded in the Global War on Terror, killed in action April 4, 2003

The Human Cost & Legacy

Nearly 4,500 Americans lost their lives in Iraq. African American soldiers bore a significant share of that burden — serving in combat roles, intelligence, logistics, and special operations throughout the conflict. Many served multiple deployments, returning again and again to one of the most demanding combat environments in modern military history.

Their service — often without the recognition it deserved — helped shape the modern U.S. military and the ongoing legacy of Black service in America.

Our Iraq War collection honors every soldier who served in Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation New Dawn.

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