Edward W. Brooke was born in Washington D.C. on October 26, 1919. Following graduation from Howard University, Brooke served in the military. Decorated in the all-black 366th combat infantry regiment, he defended men in military tribunals. During his Italian campaign, Brooke crossed enemy lines to fight with the Italian Partisans and defeated Nazi and Fascist troops.

Returning from the war and experienced in legal proceedings, Brooke enrolled in Boston University School of Law, earning an LL.B. and LL.M. degree. Edward Brooke became Massachusetts first African American Attorney General and the first African American Senator, elected since reconstruction.

He has received over 35 honorary degrees and numerous other awards and honors, including the NAACP’s prestigious Spingarn Medal. In 2004, Brooke was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom.