ST. LOUIS – In a relentless rainstorm, a groundbreaking ceremony was held, attributing to the sacrifice of African American soldiers during the Civil War.

“The troops could go out if our military always went on for any weather conditions, and we can stand out here and honor them,” said Carmella Berkeley, a soldier descendant.

“They were over 200,000 US troops and they helped to free four million enslaved African Americans,” Johnson Lancaster said.

Dr. Carla Wright is spearheading this project.

“We have absolutely no monument representing the color troops right here in Missouri and this is it. This is representing them,” Wright said.

Despite the weather, local leaders and supporters brave the rain to witness this historic event.

This project is being funded entirely by local contributions, and Wright urges everyone to jump on board.

“We appreciate your help and whatever way you want to be a part of this,” Wright said. “I’m asking everybody to join in. We have to make this. I want this to be a spot where tourists can come and appreciate it.”