Our first installment of the Doc Martin series examines his time as a student at Norwich University.  Harold "Doc" Martin made a habit of being a barrier breaker. His entire time on the Hill was nothing short of groundbreaking.  Often times, phrases such as groundbreaking are flippantly used for common activities, but in this situation, it actually undersells what all he did.  In short, Doc is one shining example of fulfilling the school motto "I Will Try."

A very forward-thinking alumni wrote a letter of recommendation for Harold Martin as Martin prepared to finish his studies at Boston Latin School.  The alumni saw the untapped potential within a young Doc Martin and understood how beneficial Doc's time could be in Northfield, both for Doc and for Norwich as a whole.  In 1916 he was matriculated as the first Black student in university history.

"When the story of the black athlete in America is written from an historic perspective, it will include the name of Norwich University's Harold 'Doc' Martin, one of the first black college athletes." (Norwich University Record) 

Doc's athletic exploits were as extensive and diverse as any athlete to ever wear the maroon and gold.  On the field of play is what Martin is most often known for and was a multisport athlete who competed in four sports. He was a standout on the gridiron, being named team captain in 1918 as a half-back, known for his elusiveness. "'Doc' Martin was back and carried the bulk of the work. Along with him were a few old men who had had varsity experience during their freshman year which helped considerably." (War Whoop, 1920) There are numerous articles in The Record and The Reveille during his time at Norwich which are filled with stories of athletic accomplishments.  Along with being a leader on the football field, Martin also was a member of the hockey, baseball, and track teams.  His leadership also showed up in hockey as he was named captain.  In fact, he is widely viewed as the first Black college hockey player in the United States.  For baseball, he was a five-tool player along with being one of the aces of the pitching staff.  After graduation he would continue his baseball career playing professionally for a few years.  In recognition for his play on the many athletic fields, Martin was inducted into the Norwich University Hall of Fame in 1984 as part of the second hall of fame class ever.  He is one of the two members of the class of 1920 to be honored.

Beyond the athletic fields, Doc Martin was a man of wide-ranging skills and interests.  He clearly had a thirst for gathering as many experiences at this great institution as he could.  "Doc is an all-around man." (War Whoop, 1920)  Doc certainly filled his time while on campus.  Besides playing on four different athletic teams he also was the leader of the mandolin club, member of student council, sang in the glee club, and was the athletic editor of the War Whoop while being an electrical engineering major.  The oldest college band in America, Norwich University's own, also benefited from Doc's abilities and interests.  "It takes 'Doc' to get the pep out of the band.  The instruments fairly talk when he handles the baton." (War Whoop, 1920)

 "During the sophomore year 'Doc' found favor at court and from that time on his military success has been assured.  Gaze on him now as he steams forth in the regalia of a Top Sergeant and reports his Troop as present." (War Whoop, 1920) As a member of the Corps he rose to the rank of 1^st Sergeant and was part of the artillery squad.  "However, here's wishing him success in life, and we know that he will succeed as he possesses that essential quality – 'pep.'" (War Whoop 1920)