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Washington, DC – The Department of the Navy (DON) recently revealed adjustments to the records of the 15 sailors who were formerly attached to the USS Philadelphia (CL-41). These servicemen are often referred to as the ‘Philadelphia 15’. The announcement was made in a ceremony at the Pentagon on June 16, presided by Franklin Parker, the Assistant Secretary of the Navy for Manpower and Reserve Affairs (ASN M&RA). The event was attended by the descendants of John and Larry Ponder, who were part of the Philadelphia 15.
The group known as the ‘Philadelphia 15’ consists of 15 African-American sailors who served on the USS Philadelphia. In October 1940, these men took a stand against racial discrimination and prejudice by penning a letter that was later published in the Pittsburgh Courier. The letter highlighted the racial abuse they suffered and the barriers they encountered when trying to advance to higher-ranking positions. They advised African-American mothers to prevent their sons from joining the Navy due to the discriminatory practices. As a result of this bold letter, they were discharged with “bad conduct discharges” or tagged with “undesirable” charges.
The decision to correct their records and upgrade their discharges was made following a comprehensive review of the case by the DON leadership.
Bobby Hogue, Principal Deputy ASN M&RA, stated, “The record contained evidence that suggested the race of these sailors may have been a factor that impermissibly motivated some of the decisions made by the Navy regarding these sailors. That was enough for me to initiate the case.”
Relatives of the Philadelphia 15 are encouraged to contact the DON at PTGN_CHINFOnewsdesk@navy.mil or 703-697-5342 for any future notifications or for further information on the subject.
The Philadelphia 15 include the following members: Ernest Bosley, Arval Perry Cooper, Shannon Goodwin, Theodore Hansbrough, Byron Johnson, Floyd Owens, John Ponder, James Ponder, James Porter, George Rice, Otto Robinson, Floyd St. Clair, Fred Tucker, Robert Turner, and Jesse Watford.
Source: US Navy
