Role of Officer Selection and Training on the Successful Formation and Employment of U.S. Colored Troops in the American Civil War, 1863-1865

The successful formation and employment of the USCT regiments during the Civil War depended on many factors. The soldiers themselves were highly motivated to succeed. Victory in the war meant permanent freedom for themselves, and their families. But motivation and courage alone do not make a successful military organization. One of the crucial factors that contributed to the success of the USCT was the highly qualified nature of the majority of white officers selected to lead USCT regiments. Officers were appointed to command USCT regiments following a logical and original merit-based program of selection and promotion. That process surpassed the standards for officers in white regiments. USCT officers were screened for character and dedication. All were required to produce some form of recommendation or nomination from their commanders or leaders of their community. They were vetted by an impartial Board of Examiners that determined their moral character, merit, and competence to lead. Many received additional, valuable education through semi-formal support systems of schooling that armed them with a unique quality education in military art and science.