The Golden Thirteen

How Black Men Won the Right to Wear Navy Gold

By: Dan Goldberg

Narrated by: Sam Manual

The inspiring story of the 13 courageous Black men who integrated the U.S. Navy during World War II—leading desegregation efforts across America and anticipating the civil rights movement.

Featuring previously unpublished material from the U.S. Navy, this little-known history of forgotten civil rights heroes uncovers the racism within the military and the fight to serve.

Through oral histories and original interviews with surviving family members, Dan Goldberg brings thirteen forgotten heroes away from the margins of history and into the spotlight. He reveals the opposition these men faced: the racist pseudo-science, the regular condescension, the repeated epithets, the verbal abuse and even violence. Despite these immense challenges, the Golden Thirteen persisted—understanding the power of integration, the opportunities for black Americans if they succeeded, and the consequences if they failed.

Until 1942, black men in the Navy could hold jobs only as cleaners and cooks. The Navy reluctantly decided to select the first black men to undergo officer training in 1944, after enormous pressure from ordinary citizens and civil rights leaders. These men, segregated and sworn to secrecy, worked harder than they ever had in their lives and ultimately passed their exams with the highest average of any class in Navy history.

In March 1944, these sailors became officers, the first black men to wear the gold stripes. Yet even then, their fight wasn’t over: white men refused to salute them, refused to eat at their table, and refused to accept that black men could be superior to them in rank. Still, the Golden Thirteen persevered, determined to hold their heads high and set an example that would inspire generations to come.

In the vein of Hidden Figures, The Golden Thirteen reveals the contributions of heroes who were previously lost to history.

What a great read

After spending 20 years in the Navy I had no idea about this story. Very well researched and written. I only hate that the Navy was so bigoted at the time and couldn’t have been more progressive. I really enjoyed it

Phenomenal Story! A must read!

this story is a must-read for anybody who is interested in history or race relations in America! It is incredible to draw parallels of what the golden thirteen had to go to versus what we are dealing with today. everyone should read this to gain an understanding and perspective.

The Golden 13 is a must read for American history

I was struck by their story and bravery to push desegregation in the Navy. I joined the Navy 26 years after their commissioning, and had never heard their story. I was well aware of Admiral Gravely, who was the Director of Naval Communication during my career, but did not know about the brave men that went before. Thank you.

OUTSTANDING!

History that should be taught to all in our nation’s schools...lest we never forget how we arrived at this point.

Must read for officers!

This book reframed my perspective as a black officer. It was recommended to me by naval station Norfolk CO. So glad I followed through