Buffalo Soldiers Day is observed on 28 July each year to recognize the bravery, resilience, and pivotal contributions of the African American soldiers who served in the U.S. Army after the Civil War. These valiant servicemen not only played a crucial role in the country's westward expansion, participating in over 177 engagements and protecting settlers, but also left an indelible mark on U.S. history as they participated in the Spanish-American War, the Philippine-American War, and both World Wars.
As we celebrate their legacy, let us take a look back at the origins of the Buffalo Soldier, reflect on their valor and selflessness, and pay tribute to their lasting effect on our nation.
The Rise of the Buffalo Soldier
On 28 July 1866, after the end of the Civil War, Congress enacted legislation that allowed African-American men to serve in six all-black segregated units in the U.S. Army during peacetime. These regiments would later be consolidated into four –– the 9th and 10th Cavalry, and the 24th and 25th Infantry. It is said that these soldiers earned the nickname “Buffalo Soldiers” by the Native American tribes, who admired their fierce fighting spirit, resilience, and looks on the battlefield, likening them to the revered buffalo. The term eventually became synonymous with all of the African-American regiments formed in 1866.
The soldiers considered the name high praise, as buffalo were deeply respected by the Native peoples of the Great Plains. And eventually, the image of a buffalo became part of the 10th Cavalry's regimental crest.
Buffalo Soldiers’ Impact on American History
The Buffalo Soldiers' main duty was to support the nation's westward expansion by protecting settlers, building roads and other infrastructure, and guarding the U.S. mail. They served at a variety of posts in the Southwest and Great Plains, taking part in most of the military campaigns during the decades-long Indian Wars.
Buffalo Soldiers also played significant roles in many other military actions. They took part in defusing the little-known 1892 Johnson County War in Wyoming, which pitted small farmers against wealthy ranchers and a band of hired gunmen. They also fought in the Spanish-American and Philippine-American Wars, and played a key role in maintaining border security during the high-intensity military conflict along the U.S.-Mexico border during the Mexican Revolution. In 1918, the 10th Cavalry fought at the Battle of Ambos Nogales, where they assisted in forcing the surrender of the Mexican federal and militia forces.
In 1948, President Harry Truman issued an executive order eliminating racial segregation in the armed forces and the last African American units were disbanded during the 1950s. By the end of integration, Buffalo Soldiers had earned 30 Medals of Honor, as well as numerous campaign and unit citations, including the Distinguished Service Cross (the second highest military decoration for extraordinary heroism in combat).
The Origin of Buffalo Soldiers Day & Ways to Observe
Buffalo Soldiers Day was first proclaimed by President George Bush in 1992 to celebrate the all-black Army regiments' “outstanding legacy of service.” The date was chosen to honor the day that Congress enacted legislation that allowed African-American men to serve in all-black segregated units in the U.S. Army.
Here are ways you can observe Buffalo Soldiers Day:
- Tour the Buffalo Soldiers National Museum – Located in Houston, TX, the museum is dedicated to exploring and displaying the stories and contributions of African Americans in the military by way of performing and visual arts, educational programming, and exhibitions.
For Buffalo Soldiers Day, the museum is celebrating by hosting a day of history with activities for the whole family on Saturday, July 27 from 10 AM to 4 PM ET. It will include a scavenger hunt, kids’ activities, food truck, and an exciting Living History presentation by Buffalo Soldiers historian Luis Padilla. Free admission with registration.
- Visit a Buffalo Soldiers Monument – Memorials to the Buffalo Soldiers are long-standing testaments to their bravery. Notable monuments include the Buffalo Soldier Monument in Leavenworth, KY, the Charles Young Buffalo Soldiers National Monument in Washington, DC, Buffalo Soldier Memorial in Junction City, KS, and more.
Stop by a monument or museum close to you and post a picture of it with the hashtag #BuffaloSoldiersDay to encourage more people to learn their history and respect their legacy.
- Fly the Flag – Honor the mighty Buffalo Soldiers by flying the flag proudly!
Buffalo Soldier Facts & Figures:
- The first troops to be called Buffalo Soldiers were assigned to the 10th Cavalry Regiment, assembled in 1866 at Fort Leavenworth in Kansas.
- 30 Buffalo Soldiers were awarded the Medal of Honor during the almost 90 years that they served in segregated U.S. Army units
- The oldest surviving Buffalo Soldier was Mark Matthews. He passed away on 6 September 2005 at the age of 111 and is buried in Arlington National Cemetery.
- The most famous Buffalo Soldier was Charles Young (1864-1922). Considered a leader among the Buffalo Soldiers, Young was one of few black military officers.
- Cathay Williams is the first known African American woman in the military and the only known female Buffalo Soldier.
Buffalo Soldiers Day is an important occasion to honor the legacy and contributions of America’s African American soldiers. These valiant men (and one woman) not only played a crucial role in the history of the United States but also paved the way for future generations of black Army service members. Their resilience, courage, and dedication to duty are a testament to their enduring spirit. As we commemorate this significant day, let us remember and celebrate their impact on our nation's past and their enduring spirit of perseverance and valor.
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