How did the Harlem Hellfighters prepare for combat with the French Army?

After being attached to the 16th Division of the Fourth French Army in April 1918, the 369th Infantry Regiment—known as the Harlem Hellfighters—underwent specific preparations to integrate into the French military structure. These preparations included:

• Language and Tactics Training: The soldiers received instruction in French-language communication and military tactics to ensure effective coordination with their French counterparts.1
• Weaponry Training: The regiment engaged in intense drilling with the French Lebel rifle to familiarize themselves with the standard-issue firearm used by the French Army.1

These efforts facilitated the unit's transition to the front lines in the Champagne region, where they ultimately served in combat for 191 days, a duration longer than any other American unit during the war.1