the first official authorization to employ african americans in federal service was the second confiscation and militia act of july 17, 1862. this act allowed president abraham lincoln to receive into the military service persons of african descent and gave permission to use them for any purpose "he may judge best for the public welfare." however, the president did not authorize use of african americans in combat until issuance of the emancipation proclamation on january 1, 1863: "and i further declare and make known, that such persons of suitable condition, will be received into the armed service of the united states to garrison forts, positions, stations, and other places, and to man vessels of all sorts in said service." with these words the union army changed.