Honoring Montford Point Marine Henry Price
A Trailblazer in the Marine Corps
Henry Price was born in Baltimore, Maryland, on February 20, 1925. After graduating from Frederick Douglass High School, he joined the United States Marine Corps, embarking on a path that would place him among history’s trailblazers.
Henry was part of the first group of African Americans trained as Marines at Montford Point in 1942. The Montford Point Marines were the first Black service members in the U.S. Marine Corps, training at the segregated Montford Point Camp in Jacksonville, North Carolina, from 1942 to 1949. More than 20,000 Black men trained there during a time of racial segregation in the military. The first recruits arrived on August 26, 1942, marking a significant moment in military history, as the Marine Corps was the last branch to integrate. The legacy of the Montford Point Marines is honored for breaking racial barriers and paving the way for future generations of African American service members.
Life After Service
After being honorably discharged from the Marines, Henry began working for the federal government at Fort Meade in Maryland, where he remained until his retirement. During this time, he met and married Nellie Jackson. Together, they had one son, Orlando.
A 100th Birthday Salute to Service
On his 100th birthday, Henry Price was honored with a Salute to Service Tribute conducted by a team of Gilchrist military veteran volunteers. Family and friends gathered to celebrate this milestone and pay tribute to his service. The ceremony opened with a prayer, followed by the singing of the National Anthem and the Pledge of Allegiance. Henry was then presented with a certificate from Gilchrist, a We Honor Veterans pin from the Veterans Administration, a patriotic blanket handmade by a Gilchrist volunteer, and a thank-you card crafted by a student. His son, Orlando, was also recognized and presented with a Proud Family Member of a Veteran pin from Gilchrist.
As the tribute continued, everyone joined in singing the Marine Corps Hymn, a powerful moment of unity and respect. Then, the military veterans in attendance rendered a formal salute to Henry. Wearing his Montford Point Marine cap, he proudly returned the salute, his expression reflecting both pride and gratitude. The ceremony concluded with a final prayer, leaving a lasting impact on all who attended.
Following the event, one of the Marines in attendance reflected on the moment, saying, “It was such an honor to salute a Montford Point Marine on his 100th birthday.”
Henry Price’s legacy as a Montford Point Marine, a dedicated public servant, and a beloved family man continues to inspire all who hear his story.