Farewell to the Mockingbirds

Inspired by the true story of the all-black, all-volunteer 24th Infantry Regiment, Company K, McEachin's second novel (after Tell Me a Tale) is a riveting account of one of the most disgraceful chapters in American military history. In 1917 the U.S. entered WWI--but while troops were heading to France, another war was about to erupt in Texas. The men of the 24th Infantry Regiment (Colored) were all volunteers, and Company K was the best outfit in the regiment, thanks largely to the leadership and discipline of Sgt. Obie McLellan. Yet the segregated Army sent the unit to a post near Houston noted for its miserable conditions. When the Houston police ignited a race riot in town, leaving many black soldiers dead, wounded or in jail, McLellan led the enraged men of Company K in a revolt against their continual mistreatment from the police and their white officers. Company K armed itself and marched into Houston to even the score and rescue their jailed comrades. The resulting court-martial produced the largest mass trial in U.S. military history: more than 100 black soldiers were charged with murder, mutiny and other capital crimes. To appease angry Southerners, the Army promised convictions and executions; perjury, blackmail, coercion and flagrant disregard for the Constitution made a mockery of military justice. McEachin's story is a tragic commentary made even more compelling by his astute portrayal of the soldiers (called mockingbirds by the prosecution) and officers involved. Despite occasionally overwrought prose, he brings the fate of Company K hauntingly to life. (Sept.) FYI: Film and TV actor McEachin received his basic military training with Company K, 24th U.S. Infantry Regiment during the Korean War.