A Soldier's Story

In 1944, Master Sergeant Vernon Waters was tragically killed outside Fort Neal, a segregated Army base in Louisiana. His last words, a haunting declaration of hatred, echoed in the air, marking the scene of his untimely demise.

Captain Richard Davenport from the Judge Advocate General's Corps was assigned to investigate Waters' death. Despite Colonel Nivens' reluctance, Davenport faced the challenge head-on, trying to uncover the truth behind this violent act.

Initially, the investigation led to speculation that Waters was murdered by the local Ku Klux Klan. However, as Captain Davenport dug deeper, this theory began to unravel, raising questions about the circumstances surrounding his death.

Captain Taylor, the only white officer who could assist Davenport, displayed reluctance in cooperating due to the nature of the investigation. This created tensions among Black soldiers, who were divided in their support for Davenport's leadership.

Davenport discovered that unlike other Black soldiers killed by the Klan, Waters was found still wearing his military uniform. This critical detail contradicted earlier assumptions and pointed to deeper, more complex issues regarding his death.

Waters led the 221st Chemical Smoke Generator Battalion, which was relegated to non-combat roles despite their eagerness for action. This unit, composed of former Negro baseball league stars, even dreamed of playing against the New York Yankees.

James Wilkie, a former sergeant in Waters' unit, shared insights into Waters' character—an esteemed leader who had seen war but was also troubled by class differences within the ranks. His conflicting nature painted a complicated picture of the late sergeant.

Private Peterson recounted a disturbing interaction with Sergeant Waters, where he stood up to racial disdain only to face physical assault from Waters. This encounter left Peterson haunted and highlighted the internal strife within the unit.

Corporal Cobb revealed that Waters had visited C.J. in the brig, confessing to a sinister plot against him. C.J.'s tragic death from suicide following a court-martial compounded the emotional turmoil within the battalion and devastated his teammates.

Just before Waters' death, he was confronted by racist officers Captain Wilcox and Lieutenant Byrd, who admitted to assaulting him. Their claims of innocence only intensified the atmosphere of hate swirling around his tragic fate.

During intense questioning, Wilkie revealed that Waters had directed him to plant a weapon in C.J.'s quarters out of racial animosity. This shocking confession unveiled the depths of betrayal and violence amidst the soldiers.

The investigation took a crucial turn when Smalls confessed to witnessing Peterson shooting Waters. He framed it as a misguided act of justice, exposing the complex and corrupt dynamics within the battalion.

Major Taylor praised Davenport for his determination in arresting the right suspects, recognizing the need for the military to adapt to the inclusion of Black officers. Davenport's resolve to bring justice shone through in the face of adversity.

As the battalion prepared for imminent deployment to the European theater, the weight of the investigation and its unresolved tensions loomed over them. Each soldier carried both the memories and the learning experiences that would define their path in the war ahead.