Pvt. Elbert CODY III (b. 1894) descends from a long line of Elberts in our family. He was Grandson [and namesake] to my 4th Great Grandfather, Elbert CODY (b. 1820), the son of Elbert II (b. 1847) and Lula CODY of Warrenton, Georgia. If you need help keeping up with our Elberts, just check here – A Tale of Many Elberts ~ CODY, DORSEY, DAWSON, WINGFIELD & STRINGER.
Elbert CODY III is my 1st Cousin, 4xs removed.
As I’ve shared, I was delighted to find Elbert and Zack JONES, Cousin Gwen’s Grandfather, being inducted together and sent to Atlanta’s Camp GORDON for war-training. I’d give anything to know what they talked about on that day or how they felt being sworn in. Or to hear their experiences as part of the newly formed Colored Troops!
Cousin Elbert served overseas from July 1918 to July 1919 with Company C 327th Service Battalion and was Honorably Discharged July 15, 1919.
He departed this life on December 3, 1950 and is buried at the Highland Park Cemetery in Cleveland, Ohio; a Military Headstone marking his grave.
Negro Recruits Camp Gordon 1918
I’m still seeking to learn where he served and to find his name on an official Roster List. Finding historical documentation of our African American in service has proven to be quite the challenge, and was the genesis for my creating this blog.
Our men deserve better. They are deserving of honor and recognition for their service. We can’t allow their stories, service and memories to be blotted out of history.
As you can see, I’ve discovered more than a few images of Camp Gordon Negro recruits 1917-1918 online via the National Archives.
Who can say? I could very well be looking in the face of Cousins Elbert and Zack as they made their way to Camp Gordon!
I’m hopeful some of my CODY-DORSEY-JONES cousins will find a familiar face among these young men. Now wouldn’t that be something!:)
Elbert CODY III – Georgia, World War I Service Cards, 1917-1919
Elbert CODY III – Army Registration Card 1917
African American Soldiers at Camp Gordon listening to another Soldier read 1917-1918
Camp Gordon New Recruits receiving instruction – 1918 Georgia
Where Honor Is Due: Our Men of Military Service 