Captain Fredrick C Branch

[USMCRET6391]

Frederick C. Branch had his eye on a commission. He was qualified and the requirements didn't mention race. All he needed was a recommendation. "They told me to shut that blankety-blank stuff up about being an officer," said Branch. "You ain't going to be no officer."

He began his distinguished military career at Montford Point Camp and served with the 51st Defense Battalion in the South Pacific. His first breakthrough came when as a PFC, he was selected to attend the Navy's V-12 program at Purdue University where he made the Dean's List. He subsequently attended the 16th Platoon Commander's Class in Quantico, Va. After graduation from college he stood out as the only Black in a class of 250 officer candidates.

LT. FREDERICK C. BRANCH BECAME THE FIRST BLACK COMMISSIONED OFFICER IN MARINE CORPS HISTORY ON NOVEMBER 10, 1945.

This was a significant milestone in the then 170 year history of the Marine Corps. At one time, he was the commanding officer of an all-White platoon. He had received the rank of captain when he was released in 1952. On July 9, 1997, the Marine Corps first Black officer was honored when he returned to Quantico as the guest of honor for the dedication of the newly remodeled Academics Building named in his honor. His strong inspirational desire to achieve never was forgotten by the Marines. This was the reason the base's academics building was named in his honor. Captain Branch established a well earned reputation for all things military. His fame has grown, and he has set the course for African-American officers to follow.

On July 14, 1999 at the 34th National Montford Point Convention where he was inducted into the newly established Montford Point Marine Hall of Fame.