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African-Americans
have fought in military conflicts since the colonial days. However, the Buffalo
Soldiers, comprised of former slaves, freemen, and Black Civil War soldiers, were
the first to serve during peace time.
Once the Westward movement had begun, prominet among those blazing treacherous trails
of the Wild West were the Buffalo Soldiers of the U. S. Army. These African-Americans
were charged with and responsible for escorting settlers, cattle herds, and railroad
crews. The 9th and 10th Cavalry Regiments also conducted campaigns against
American Indian tribes on a western frontier that extended from Montana in the Northwest
to Texas, New Mexico, and Arizona in the Southwest. Throughout the era of
the Indian Wars, approximately twenty percent of the U. S. Cavalry troopers were
Black, and they fought in over 177 engagements. The combat prowess, bravery,
tenaciousness, and looks on the battlefield, inspired the Indians to call them "Buffalo
Soldiers". Many Indians believe the name symbolized the Native American's
respect for the Buffalo Soldiers' bravery and valor. Buffalo Soldiers, down
through the years, have worn the name with pride.
Buffalo Soldiers participated in many other military campaigns: The Spanish American
War, The Philippine Insurrection, The Mexican Expedition, World War I, World War
II, and the Korean Police Action.
Much have changed since the days of the Buffalo Soldiers, including the integration
of all military servicemen and women. However, the story of the Buffalo Soldiers
remain one of unsurpassed courage and patriotism, and will be forever a significant
part of the history of America.
African-Americans have fought with distinction in al of this country's military
engagements. However, some of their most notable contributions and sacrifices
cam during the Civil War. During that conflict, more than 180,000 African-Americans
wore the union Army blue. Another 30,000 served inthe Navy, and 200,000 served
as workers on labor, engineering, hospital andother military support projects.
More than 33,000 of these gallant soldiers gave their lives for the sake of freedom
and their country.
Shortly after the Civil War, Congress authorized the formation of the 9th and 10th
Cavalry and the 38th, 39th, 40th, and 41st Infantry Regiments: Six all Black peacetime
units. Later the four infantry regiments were merged into the 24th and 25th
Infantries.
In countless skirmishes and firefights, the troopers won the respect of the Plains
warriors who named them "Buffalo Soldiers". African-Americans accepted the
badge of honor and wore it proudly. At least 18 Medals of Honor were presented
to Buffalo Soldiers during the Western Campaigns. Similarly, 23 African-Americans
received the nation's highest military award during the Civil War.
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