Liberty Legacies - Buffalo Soldier

Since their establishment, the legacy of the Buffalo Soldiers and their contributions to the Westward expansion of the U.S. is a complex relationship of civic duty and the fight for equal rights.

 

The Buffalo Soldiers played a pivotal role in the Indian Wars of the late 19th century, distinguished for their service record, discipline, military medals of honor, and low desertion rate, renowned for their horsemanship and equestrian skill. They would go on to provide both foreign and domestic military service for nearly a century before disbanding upon the full integration of the U.S. Army and the beginning of the Vietnam War.

 

Today, the heroism of the Buffalo Soldiers has transformed them into symbols of African American patriotism, U.S. military multiculturalism, and persistence in the face of ongoing racism, continuing to hold a special place of honor in the U.S. Military Academy, equestrian training at West Point, and beyond.

 

To all of the soldiers who have joined for the sake of a better life and to fight for their country, we salute you and your service, and welcome you as one of America's proud Liberty Legacies.