The 369Th Experience Inc

The 369th Experience's mission is to plan, develop, and execute programs, projects, and educational activities to support the commemoration and acknowledgement of the contributions of the African American and Puerto Ricans soldiers who fought in World War I as part of the 369th Infantry Regiment, also known as the Harlem Hellfighters. These activities nationwide and internationally will ensure the legacy of the 369th Regiment is shared with 10 million students and millennials. The organization will perform these educational services during the World War I Centennial and beyond to acknowledge, educate and preserve the legacy of the Harlem Hellfighters.

The 369th Experience is an historic re-creation of the The 369th Infantry Regimental Band, also known as the Harlem Hellfighters. The 369th Infantry Regiment was comprised of African American and Puerto Rican soldiers in World War I. They went on to become one of the longest-serving, most decorated units of World War I. In addition to their bravery on the battlefield, these soldiers were brilliant musicians who introduced ragtime, big band and jazz to the warfront and the world. Our band is made up of 65 African American and Puerto Rican male students from HBCSs and other colleges and universities across the United States. Our program celebrates the Harlem Hellfighters's contribution to the music of the past and present with live and virtual performances saluting The 369th Regimental Band and its bandleader James Reese Europe.