The Forty-third regiment United States Colored Troops

This volume offers a vivid portrait of the 43rd United States Colored Troops, assembled during the Civil War to fight for freedom and Union. Written at the request of the regiment’s officers and comrades, it blends personal testimonies with a broader argument about the bravery, discipline, and intellectual capacity of the colored soldiers who served on the front lines.

Central to the narrative is the remarkable career of Brevet Brigadier General S. B. Yeoman, a man whose life began on the high seas and who later answered the Union’s call. From his early days as a teenage sailor enduring shipwrecks to his daring reconnaissance missions under General Sherman, Yeoman’s story is marked by repeated wounds, steadfast resolve, and a commitment to leadership even after a severe arm injury forced his resignation. His later return to command, culminating in the regiment’s participation in the capture of Richmond, illustrates the profound dedication of both officers and enlisted men.

Listeners will gain a deeper appreciation for the regiment’s contributions, the challenges they faced, and the enduring spirit that defined their service.