Samuel Lee Gravely Jr. was a highly decorated Navy officer who pioneered the way with a multitude of firsts for African Americans in the military. Some of his most notable achievements included being the first African American Navy Vice Admiral, the first African American to command a Navy warship, the first African American to command a warship during combat, the first African American to command a Navy Fleet, and the first African American to obtain Flag Rank in the military. His decorations include the Bronze Star, Legion of Merit, Navy Commendation Medal, and Meritorious Service Medal. Samuel Gravely was born in Richmond, Virginia, on June 4, 1922. He attended Virginia Union University for three years, where he was a member of Alpha Phi Alpha, the first intercollegiate fraternity established for African Americans in 1906. Postponing his education, he enlisted in the Naval Reserve in 1942 where he trained as a fireman apprentice. In December of 1944 Samuel Gravely was commissioned an Ensign following his successful completion of a rigorous Midshipman education known as the V-12 Program. During his officer education he attended the University of California at Los Angeles, Pre-Midshipman school in New Jersey, and Midshipman school at Columbia University … Continue reading Samuel Lee Gravely (1922-2004)