Montford Point Marine Day Ceremony at Camp Lejeune on Thursday

Camp Lejeune will host an event this week meant to commemorate the legacy of nearly 20,000 African-Americans who served in the Marine Corps.

It takes place at the Montford Point Marines Memorial in the Lejeune Memorial Gardens, which officials say includes features to honor those who trained at the Montford Point Camp. The memorial features a wall of 20,000 gold stars, a World War II artillery cannon, a bronze statue and other architectural elements to properly honor these Marines with such a rich history of service and sacrifice.