When America is at war thousands of Americans contribute to the effort. No matter one’s ethnic background, the call to serve is great—whether at home or on the front lines. People tell their story with letters sent home, entries in a journal, newspaper stories, and now email, and social media. The National Park Service preserves the stories of people who have fought for our country in many capacities. Learn about the diverse way people have served.
![4 african american world war ii pilots walk on a runway](/common/uploads/grid_builder/military/crop16_9/EBC1A3FC-1DD8-B71B-0B9B9957B6FBFAE0.jpg?width=640&quality=90&mode=crop)
From Buffalo Soldier to Tuskegee Airmen, African Americans have been leaving their mark on our nation's military since it's inception.
![Daniel Inouye walks in front of crowd of marines](/common/uploads/grid_builder/military/crop16_9/EC73958B-1DD8-B71B-0B12D9D39E718E5B.jpg?width=640&quality=90&mode=crop)
Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders have distinguished themselves in our nation's military even during our toughest moments as a nation.
![spanish soldiers line up in field](/common/uploads/grid_builder/military/crop16_9/EE2995CA-1DD8-B71B-0BBA777CDF369DEE.jpg?width=640&quality=90&mode=crop)
Hispanic & Latino Americans have distinguished themselves, from early conflicts over border and territory and to modern wars.
![woman stands on porch overlooking fort](/common/uploads/grid_builder/military/crop16_9/ECC54318-1DD8-B71B-0B2BA24309BC18F5.jpg?width=1300&quality=90&mode=crop)
Coincidences in place and time have put these civilians in the center of firefights, and some have rushed in to help.
![Two women in machine shop](/common/uploads/grid_builder/military/crop16_9/EEAC8F73-1DD8-B71B-0BCCD75349E2FA49.jpg?width=640&quality=90&mode=crop)
In secret and in whatever way they could, women have served in our armed forces.
![a native american in traditional dress and with face paint on](/common/uploads/grid_builder/military/crop16_9/EE7C1995-1DD8-B71B-0BFA4F1E8769C731.jpg?width=640&quality=90&mode=crop)
Fighting for their people and later for a country, American Indians have served with distinction.
![B&W photo of military general with sideburns](/common/uploads/grid_builder/military/crop16_9/EB93D229-1DD8-B71B-0BCBCEAA7E3AB8A2.jpg?width=1300&quality=90&mode=crop)
Battles have been won and lost on the strength of these leaders.
Last updated: November 9, 2017