the 1st rhode island regiment had to prove themselves to the white society that they could be brave soldiers, and they were. starting with the battle of rhode island, there was recognition from the members of congress that these people were right in letting blacks in. they re really proving washington wrong. george washington s true feelings toward african-american soldiers are unclear. but the valiant service of men like peter salem, jack sisson, and salem poor show washington that black patriots are more than equal to the challenge of battle. eventually, these unsung heroes inspire george washington to allow all able men, no matter what their race, to serve in the continental army. the 1st rhode island s success isn t celebrated by