COLUMBIA, SC (WIS) -
One of the nation's first black marines lives in Columbia and was honored by receiving the Congressional Gold Medal for his contributions to integrating the military.
"This is something I didn't dream of," said James Knotts. "Never thought I'd get one as a Montford Point Marine."
Members of Congress honored the 92-year-old and 400 former black marines, who called Montfort Point, home 70 years ago.
"Montford Point was the only place in the United States that trained black troops," said Knotts.
In 1942, the military allowed blacks to serve in the Marine Corp. At the age of 26, Knotts was among the first African-Americans to integrate the system.
"We was colored," Knotts said. "As far as I was concerned, no difference, we just served like everybody else."
As a Marine, Knotts traveled the world and served as a carpenter during World War II and during the Korean conflict.
In Washington D.C., Knotts was able to reconnect with his fellow training buddies while being honored.
Knotts' daughter Carrie even witnessed the event and said it was a proud moment to watch.
"They were the ones to pave the way," said Carrie. "Even though they did it through the Marine Corp, they paved the way so you could be where you are today."
Copyright 2012 WIS. All rights reserved.
All content © Copyright 2000 - 2013 WorldNow and WSFA, a Raycom Media Station.
