What defines a true hero? The 12-part weekly series which starts today in Young Observer explores the heroism of a group of men who at a time of widespread bigotry and racism, put their lives on the line in the name of democracy.

"The Harlem Hellfighters, When Pride met Courage" is the story of the African-American soldiers of the 369th Infantry Regiment who crossed the Atlantic Ocean to fight in France during the First World War.

The series runs every Thursday for twelve weeks, beginning today on Page 13.

Condensed from the book of the same name by Michael L. Printz Award winner Walter Dean Myers and renowned filmmaker Bill Miles, it is not simply about victory over the Germans; it is also about challenging prejudice and giving a good account of themselves when so many thought they might fail.

Running parallel to the American tale, is the story of the role Black Bermudians played in the defence of their country over the centuries, and in particular, the Bermuda Militia Artillery's service overseas in the First World War.

Aimed at middle- and high-school students, the series will highlight the importance of one of the two contingents Bermuda sent to support Britain in its struggle to contain an expansionist Germany and its allies.

There are contemporary images of the battlefield, first-hand accounts of life under artillery fire, and the final triumphant return home.

Awareness of the role Bermuda played in the first truly global conflict will reinforce the significance of the annual Remembrance Day ceremony and the wreath laying at the Cenotaph on the grounds of the Cabinet Office each year in memory of that first Armistice Day almost a century ago.