Maj. James Smiley with 2nd Maintenance Battalion presents Montford Point Marine, Gunnery Sgt. (Ret.) Robert Lee Thomas with the Congressional Gold Medal, the highest civilian award, at the Healing and Peace Tabernacle Church of God in Christ, Durham, N.C. Aug. 19, 2012.

By breaking the color-barrier in 1942, the Montford Marines became part of the rich legacy of the Corps by both fighting the enemy during World War II, while also fighting for their civil rights and respect of their fellow Americans.

Photo by USMC Sgt. Anthony Ortiz

More images below of the Congressional Gold Medal presentation to Montford Point Marines - Click on a thumbnail in Gallery to see larger image