When U.S. Navy Captain Kelechi Ndukwe raised his hand and took command of the USS Halsey in 2021, he made history as the first Nigerian-born officer to command a U.S. Navy warship[1]. Ndukwe’s remarkable journey from Nigeria to the pinnacle of naval leadership is one shining example of how African-born individuals have strengthened the United States military and defended the freedoms Americans cherish today. As Americans celebrate Veterans Day, it is fitting to salute heroes like Ndukwe – immigrants from the African continent who wear the uniform with pride and honor. They stand among the 731,000 U.S. military veterans who were born outside the United States (about 4.5% of all veterans)[2], a testament to the idea that service and patriotism know no borders. These men and women of African birth have brought unique perspectives, skills, and unwavering dedication, reminding us that Africa’s contributions to American freedom are deep-rooted and enduring.
A Legacy Forged in Heritage and Sacrifice
African heritage has been intertwined with American military history from the very start. African Americans – including those of African birth and descent – have served in every U.S. conflict since the nation’s inception, often fighting for liberties that they themselves were denied[3]. In fact, many consider the first casualty of the Revolutionary War to be Crispus Attucks, a Black man of African descent who fell during the 1770 Boston Massacre while protesting British tyranny[4]. From that foundational sacrifice, people of African origin have repeatedly answered America’s call. During the Civil War, nearly 200,000 Black soldiers and sailors (many of them formerly enslaved, some born in Africa) donned Union uniforms. Their courage and bloodshed proved pivotal in preserving the Union and ending slavery. “It was Black people in the military, many of whom were enslaved persons, who freed this nation because of the Civil War,” observes Dr. Frank Smith, founder of the African American Civil War Museum[5]. “It is because of Black soldiers that we have the 13th, 14th and 15th Amendments to the Constitution,” he adds, underscoring how African-descended troops helped secure the very freedoms Americans celebrate on Veterans Day[5].
African American veterans continued to serve with distinction in subsequent generations – from the Buffalo Soldiers taming the Western frontier in the 19th century, to the all-Black Tuskegee Airmen dominating the skies in World War II, to today’s diverse all-volunteer force. Even when facing segregation and discrimination at home, Black service members fought heroically abroad for the cause of liberty. Harriet Tubman, born into bondage, famously served as a Union scout and led an armed raid during the Civil War[6], and many others like her proved that valor and patriotism are not bound by race or birthplace. By the 21st century, African Americans made up 17% of active-duty military members – exceeding their 13% share of the U.S. population[3], a reflection of their proud tradition of service. These historical contributions form a legacy that every American of African descent can take pride in. Africa’s sons and daughters, whether African American or African-born, have shed blood for American ideals of freedom and justice even when America did not fully uphold those ideals for them. Their perseverance and sacrifice laid a foundation of progress, from emancipation and civil rights to the highest ranks of military leadership – evidenced by milestones like Gen. Colin Powell and Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin, the first African Americans in those roles[6]. This enduring legacy of service and sacrifice is a powerful reminder: the fight for American freedom has always been a global, multiracial effort, with Africa deeply embedded in the story.
New Americans in Uniform: Modern Immigrant Patriots
Today, a new generation of African-born Americans is carrying that legacy forward. Every branch of the U.S. military includes immigrants from African nations who have volunteered to defend their adopted homeland. They come from Nigeria and Kenya, Ghana and Ethiopia, Somalia and beyond – each with personal journeys that led them to the American armed forces. By choosing to serve, these individuals often earn U.S. citizenship and a chance to give back to the country that offered them new opportunities. Since 2002, more than 187,000 military service members have become naturalized U.S. citizens[7], and many thousands of them hail from African countries. In fact, immigrants from Kenya rank first among African-born groups serving in the U.S. military – about 0.4% of all Kenyans in America are in uniform – followed by Ghanaians (0.3%) and Nigerians (0.1%)[8]. Whether in the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps or Coast Guard, African-born soldiers, sailors, airmen, and Marines stand shoulder to shoulder with native-born colleagues in defense of American ideals. By welcoming these “new Americans” into its ranks, the military gains valuable language skills, cultural knowledge, and a fierce drive that often comes from immigrants who deeply appreciate the freedoms the U.S. represents[9].
Senior Airman Gentle Onuora, originally from Nigeria, poses proudly after becoming a U.S. citizen through military service. Onuora, who speaks four languages and followed his father’s advice to join the “greatest Air Force in the world,” says serving in the U.S. Air Force has been a lifelong dream come true. “It’s been my dream and I’m so happy to be in the U.S. Air Force… And now I am a citizen serving the United States and making my family proud,” Onuora said upon earning his citizenship[10]. His journey began with a move from Nigeria in 2015 to join family in America, and it culminated in raising his right hand to support and defend the Constitution. Inspired by his father, a Nigerian Army veteran, Onuora realized he could honor his African heritage and serve his new country. “The Air Force is one of the best things that ever happened to me,” he reflects, grateful for the opportunity and determined to serve for “at least ten to 20 years”[11]. His story echoes that of thousands of African-born service members who seize the chance to contribute to something larger than themselves.
Many African immigrants choose the military as a way to give back to the nation that welcomed them. Army Specialist Davidson “Momo” Momodebe, for example, grew up amid conflict in Nigeria and dreamed of a safer, freer life. After moving to the United States and enlisting in the Army, he saw his service as a chance to protect the ideals he had long yearned for. “Joining the Army was something I’ve always wanted to do… I think it’s really more about peacekeeping, security, and defending the Constitution and the people,” Momo explains[12]. Now a fuel specialist with the 1st Cavalry Division, he knows firsthand the value of the liberty America stands for. “Freedom, yes freedom,” Momo says, when asked what motivated him to serve. “In my home country, we experienced dictatorship. It’s not freedom of speech like the U.S.,” he notes, emphasizing how dearly he cherishes the rights many Americans take for granted[13]. Fellow soldiers like Captain Daniel “Edi” Edomwandagbon, another Nigerian-born American, agree wholeheartedly. “Freedom, liberty, the rights of the people … it’s different [here],” says Edi, who came to the U.S. for education and stayed to serve, “the individual rights [in America]” make all the difference[14]. For these men, wearing the uniform is both a duty and a gratitude: a way to repay the nation that gave them refuge and opportunity. As a military public affairs officer observed about such immigrants, “These Soldiers continue to give back to a country that has given them so much opportunity”[15].
Their contributions span all levels of the Armed Forces. Some have excelled in high-profile roles – Specialist Paul Chelimo, a Kenyan-born soldier in the U.S. Army, not only earned his citizenship through service but went on to win an Olympic silver medal for Team USA in the 5,000-meter race[16], bringing honor to his adopted nation. Others distinguish themselves in military leadership: Navy Captain Kelechi Ndukwe, introduced earlier, earned an engineering degree and rose through the ranks over two decades to command a guided-missile destroyer – a role he holds with pride as both an American naval officer and a son of Nigeria[17][18]. And countless African-born troops serve diligently in everyday roles that are critical to mission success: driving supply trucks, maintaining aircraft, providing medical care, and navigating cultural landscapes overseas. In each case, they carry dual identities that strengthen their service. “Issues of race, creed, ethnicity and country of birth tend to vanish in a combat zone, where the team is all that matters,” noted Lt. Col. Alfred Rascon – himself an immigrant Medal of Honor recipient[19]. The U.S. military, at its best, is a true team of nations, united by a common oath. An Army slogan once proudly declared, “America’s diversity is our Army’s strength,” and today’s African-born service members prove this on a daily basis[20].
What’s more, many of these troops serve as bridges between cultures, enriching the military community with their heritage. Take U.S. Army Staff Sgt. Job Ojo, who moved from Ogbomoso, Nigeria to the United States for graduate school and later enlisted. In addition to his duties as a supply specialist, Ojo became known for sharing his culture with fellow soldiers. He even prepared a homemade African-style Thanksgiving dinner for over 80 of his comrades and their families one year, infusing an American tradition with the warmth and spice of his African upbringing[21]. Moments like these – an immigrant soldier breaking bread with brothers-in-arms, introducing jollof rice alongside turkey and gravy – beautifully symbolize the unity in diversity that makes our armed forces strong. The American melting pot truly extends to the mess hall and the front lines alike.
Voices of Valor: Pride in Heritage and Service
Listening to African-born veterans and service members, a common theme emerges: profound pride in both their African roots and their American service. They encourage others to feel the same. “Americans have the freedoms that they have because of people who served in the military,” says Donovan K. Bilbro, a Black U.S. Army veteran, reminding us that liberty must be defended by each generation[22]. Bilbro and others emphasize that Black veterans – whether African American or African-born – deserve more recognition for their impact on the country[22]. That recognition begins with understanding their stories and celebrating their contributions. It means honoring the Nigerian-born airman who keeps our jets flying, the Ghanaian-American Marine who leads her unit, the Ethiopian-born medic who saves lives on the battlefield. It means remembering that both the rich heritage of Africa and the ideals of America can live harmoniously in one patriotic heart.
Many African-born service members feel a duty not only to the U.S. but also to the communities and families they left behind. They serve knowing that their success shines a positive light on their countries of origin. “I am serving the United States and making my family proud,” says Airman Onuora of his journey[10] – proud to prove his father’s faith in him, and proud to represent Nigeria in the ranks of the U.S. Air Force. This dual pride dismantles any notion that one must shed one’s heritage to be a loyal American. On the contrary, their love for the Motherland often fuels their desire to serve the Homeland. The values of honor, courage, and community that many grew up with in Africa align closely with the values of the U.S. military. As these veterans will tell you, you can honor where you come from while protecting where you live – the two are not in conflict, but in harmony.
Their voices also carry messages of inspiration for future generations. They urge young Americans of African descent to take ownership of the legacy built by those before them. By joining the military, “Black people are making the country better,” Dr. Frank Smith notes, adding that each new enlistee from our communities builds on a lineage of service that dates back centuries[23]. That service not only defends America, it also shatters stereotypes and opens doors. Every time an African immigrant graduates from boot camp or an African American is pinned with a higher rank, a piece of history is made and a barrier is broken for those who will follow. The pride of heritage and the calling of service reinforce each other: the discipline and strength drawn from African culture become an asset in uniform, and the respect earned through military service becomes a credit to the broader African diaspora.
A Call to Unity and Cultural Pride
On this Veterans Day, Americans of African descent can stand especially proud. The uniformed heroes we honor today include many who trace their lineage to Africa – whether by recent immigration or through generations on this soil. Their stories remind us that the concept of freedom they defend was nurtured not just in Philadelphia and Boston, but also in places like Accra, Lagos, Nairobi, and Monrovia in the dreams of those who came to America. The liberty we celebrate is the result of shared struggle and shared hope across continents. As we thank all veterans for their service, let us shine an extra light on those whose journey to service began in Africa.
They have proven that patriotism is not defined by birthplace, but by heartfelt commitment. They exemplify the ideal of being, as one Medal of Honor recipient put it, “immigrants by birth and Americans by choice… always Americans in our hearts.”[24] Their lives are a bridge uniting the Red, White, and Blue with the red, gold, green, and black of the African flags. In their courage, we see the best of both worlds.
As veteran and former city councilman Donovan Bilbro said, “There should be more recognition of Black veterans and the impact that they have had on this country and in the military.”[22] Indeed, recognizing and celebrating these contributions is a call to unity – a reminder that people of all colors and creeds have defended this nation, and that our strength lies in that very diversity. It is also a call to cultural pride – a signal to Americans of African descent that your heritage is a source of strength, and your service is a badge of honor for both yohashtag#VeteransDay hashtag#HonorOurHeroes hashtag#ur ancestral homeland and your country today.
In the spirit of Veterans Day, let us honor those African-born heroes and all veterans by reaffirming a simple truth: freedom is a gift earned by the brave, and the brave come from everywhere. From Africa to America, they have journeyed far, stood firm, and enriched the fabric of our national defense. Their legacy invites us all to remember that E pluribus unum – "out of many, one" – isn’t just a motto inscribed on a seal, but a living reality built by our veterans. This Veterans Day, we salute the African-born men and women in our armed forces, celebrate the unique tapestry of cultures they represent, and encourage every American to take pride in the shared heritage that unites us in service to freedom. Happy Veterans Day, and may we continue to draw strength from our unity in diversity.
Sources:
- S. Department of Justice, Servicemembers and Veterans Initiative – African Americans have served in every conflict since the nation’s founding[3] and figures like Crispus Attucks are recognized as early patriots[4]. As of 2015, African Americans formed 17% of active-duty personnel, higher than their share of the population[3].
- The Washington Informer (James Wright Jr.) – Interview with Dr. Frank Smith of the African American Civil War Museum, noting that Black soldiers (many formerly enslaved) “freed this nation” in the Civil War, paving the way for the 13th–15th Amendments[5]. Donovan K. Bilbro, a U.S. Army veteran, calls for more recognition of Black veterans’ impact[22] and emphasizes that Americans enjoy freedoms thanks to those who served[22].
- America’s Voice – Veterans Day profile of immigrant service members; nearly 731,000 U.S. veterans were born outside the United States (4.5% of all veterans as of 2022)[2]. Between 2002 and 2022, over 187,000 military members became citizens, with an expedited path for those in service[25]. Historically, immigrants have fought in every major U.S. conflict, and 22% of all Medal of Honor awards have gone to immigrants[26], underscoring their outsized contributions.
- Africans in America diaspora news – U.S. Census data indicate Kenyans are the most represented African immigrant group in the U.S. military (0.4% of Kenyans in America serve), followed by Ghanaians (0.3%) and Nigerians (0.1%)[8]. A 2012 Department of Defense report counted over 24,000 foreign-born people on active duty[27], many of them from Africa.
- S. Army and DVIDS (Defense Visual Information Distribution Service) – Stories of African-born soldiers like Spc. Davidson “Momo” Momodebe and Capt. Daniel “Edi” Edomwandagbon from Nigeria, who cite American freedom and opportunity as inspirations for their service[15][13]. Momo notes, “Freedom, yes freedom… In my home country… it’s not [like] the U.S.”[13], highlighting the contrast that motivated him to serve. Both soldiers are examples of immigrants “giving back to a country that has given them so much opportunity.”[15]
- S. Air Force News (434th Air Refueling Wing Public Affairs) – Profile of Senior Airman Gentle Onuora, who moved from Nigeria in 2015 and gained U.S. citizenship through military service[28][29]. Onuora was inspired by his father, a Nigerian veteran, and says “It’s been my dream… now I am a citizen… making my family proud.”[10] He plans to serve for 20 years, calling the Air Force “one of the best things that ever happened to me.”[11]
- S. Army Secretary Eric Fanning – Commentary on diversity as a strategic strength: the Army benefits from drawing on America’s diverse population, such as when “Specialist Paul Chelimo, a Kenyan-born Soldier who earned his citizenship through Army service, won the U.S. a silver medal” at the Olympics[16]. Fanning argues that to face complex future challenges, the Army “must harness the power of diverse teams” and recruit from all communities[30], underscoring the value of immigrants and minorities in the ranks.
- Guardian Nigeria – News of Navy Captain Kelechi Ndukwe, a Nigerian-born American who in 2021 became the first Nigerian to command a U.S. Navy warship (the USS Halsey)[1]. Ndukwe’s two-decade career, from ROTC at Notre Dame to commanding a guided-missile destroyer, highlights the heights of achievement possible for African-born service members[17][31]. Nigerian officials celebrated his promotion as a moment of pride for the diaspora, calling him “#ProudlyNigerian”[31].
- United Service Organizations (USO) – Story of Staff Sgt. Job Ojo, a Nigerian immigrant in the U.S. Army who felt “forever thankful for the privilege to serve” and volunteered hundreds of hours with the USO[32][33]. Ojo exemplifies cultural sharing in service, once cooking an African-style Thanksgiving dinner for 80 fellow troops and families to share a taste of his homeland[34]. His example shows how African-born service members foster camaraderie and understanding within the military community.
[1] [17] [18] [31] Kelechi Ndukwe becomes first Nigerian to command US Navy warship
[2] [7] [19] [25] [26] From the American Revolution to Today: Let's Remember the Immigrant Veterans Who Have Fought for America’s Defense and Freedom This Veterans Day - America's Voice
[3] [4] [6] Office of Public Affairs | The Servicemembers and Veterans Initiative Honors Contributions of African-Americans to the Armed Forces During Black History Month
[5] [22] [23] Veterans Day: Celebrating African American military - The Washington Informer
https://www.washingtoninformer.com/black-veterans-recognition-veterans-day/
[8] [27] Military – Africans in America
https://africans-in-america.com/category/military/
[9] [12] [13] [14] [15] DVIDS - News - American Soldiers with Nigerian Roots Support Blackjack Forward
https://www.dvidshub.net/news/369772/american-soldiers-with-nigerian-roots-support-blackjack-forward
[10] [11] [28] [29] Grissom Airman from Nigeria becomes U.S. citizen > Grissom Air Reserve Base > News
https://www.grissom.afrc.af.mil/News/Article/3043425/grissom-airman-from-nigeria-becomes-us-citizen/
[16] [20] [30] America's diversity is our Army's strength | Article | The United States Army
https://www.army.mil/article/174964/americas_diversity_is_our_armys_strength
[21] [32] [33] [34] We’re With Job: A Nigerian Immigrant and U.S. Soldier Looking to Give Back to Others · United Service Organizations
[24] New Americans in Our Nation’s Military - Center for American Progress
https://www.americanprogress.org/article/new-americans-in-our-nations-military/
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