World War II hero Curtis Andry’s name will now greet employees and visitors of Arkema’s Axis plant warehouse where he dedicated years of service until his retirement. Arkema was proud to unveil The Curtis Andry Support Center in honor of Andry’s service and sacrifice to the country, the plant and local community.

When asked how it felt to have the place where he used to work named after him, Curtis Andry Sr. said, “It’s been an honor to be able to be here and to be able to work here [Arkema].”

Curtis Andry, who’s now 98 years old, is from the Chastang community north of Mobile. He fought with the 761st Tank Battalion, an extraordinary unit that played a pivotal role in World War II and served under Gen. George Patton. The 761st was affectionately known as the “Black Panthers.”

Before this pivotal battle, Andry faced near-death experiences, sustaining serious wounds while bravely defending his country, earning commendation from the 92nd Division Buffalo Soldiers Association. 

Drafted into the U.S. Army after high school, Andry and his battalion exhibited ingenuity by modifying their M4 Sherman Tanks, doubling their speed to outmaneuver German Panzer and Tiger tanks. General Patton’s respect led to their spearheading the push into Berlin, where Andry’s tank was ambushed, exploding with him inside. 

Despite life-threatening injuries, he was rescued by medics and the 761st Black Tank Battalion continued their heroic efforts, liberating 30 villages and multiple concentration camps, leaving an enduring legacy of courage and sacrifice.

Curtis Andry’s son, Curtis Andry Jr., shared a few words about his father, “It’s always good to give a person his flowers before he is gone. He [Curtis Andry Sr.] is so grateful for all of this and he expresses that all the time. God has been good to him. I have always been very proud of him and we love him so much.”

Arkema, in partnership with the Mobile Chamber, dedicated the same warehouse building he ran for 10 years. Andry was the second person ever hired at Arkema’s Axis plant and was the first retiree. 

The event drew in friends and family of Curtis Andry to watch the unveiling of the sign and plaque. The plaque tells Curtis Andry’s story and will be placed within the warehouse to honor him for many years to come.

Arkema Axis Plant Manager Rene Neron said, “This dedication means a lot to me. It is a very small contribution to what Curtis has done for his country and for Arkema. It means a lot to us and he certainly enjoyed the day. Curtis clearly has a lot of love for his country and for Arkema. He exemplifies what we like to see in our employees.”

 

The Story of the 761st 

The story of the 761st is one of triumph over adversity, of courage in the face of prejudice, and of relentless determination that reshaped the narrative of African American service in the armed forces.

Commissioned in 1942 as the first African American tank unit, the 761st Tank Battalion, affectionately known as the “Black Panthers,” faced dual battles on the frontlines – one against the enemy forces in Europe and another against the deeply entrenched racism and segregation within the ranks of their own country. 

Deployed to the European Theater, the 761st faced the harsh realities of war, engaging in some of the most intense and critical battles of World War II. From the Battle of the Bulge to the liberation of concentration camps, the Black Panthers demonstrated their mettle time and again, earning a reputation for excellence in armored warfare.

Their skillful tank maneuvers and tenacious fighting spirit became legendary, earning them a place among the most elite units of the Allied forces. They endured a record 183 straight days in combat and liberated 30 towns on their crusade into Germany. 

As they fought their way into Germany, the 761st participated in four major campaigns through six countries, earning several battlefield commendations and honors. From the time they entered combat until the end of the war in Europe, the men of the 761st received seven Silver Stars, 246 Purple Hearts and 1 Congressional Medal of Honor.

Mobile Chamber President and CEO Bradley Byrne said, “As we honor the memory of the 761st Tank Battalion, let us acknowledge the debt of gratitude we owe to these trailblazers. Their efforts not only helped secure victory in one of the darkest chapters of human history but also paved the way for the desegregation of the U.S. military.”

May we carry forward the lessons of the 761st, celebrating their triumphs, remembering their sacrifices, and striving to build a world that values the contributions of all, regardless of race or background.