The monument, erected and dedicated in 1998 by the African American Medal of Honor Association, Inc., is located on the intersection of 18th Street and Baynard Boulevard in Brandywine Park in Wilmington, Delaware.

[1] The sculpture on top of the monument was created by Charles Parks.

William Harvey Carney, who was the first African-American to receive the distinction, for his gallantry in saving the regimental colors (American Flag) during the Battle of Fort Wagner in 1863,[2] and Private Milton L. Olive, who was the first black recipient of the Medal of Honor in the Vietnam War, when he sacrificed himself, age 18, by smothering a live grenade.

[3] As of 2020, there have been more than 3,500 military service members that have earned the Medal of Honor.

[4] Only major acts of heroism are recognized by the Medal of Honor award.