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African-Americans
have demonstrated the highest level of courage and strength
in the defense and preservation of this country.
The Buffalo Soldier is a glorious focal point for a
long history of military excellence. The contribution
of these men during this most crucial period of American
history cannot be denied.Established after the Civil
War in 1866, the 9th an d 10th Cavalry Regiments along
with the 24th and 25th Infantry Regiments were made
up of former slaves and freed men of color. These
men, who often had no family nor homes to return to
after the end of the Civil War, carved out a place for
themselves in history with their fierce courage and
tenacity. Called "the world's greatest horsemen",
they were recognized, feared and respected by the Native
Americans who they fought, the very people who gave
them their names.
The
Cheyenne called the black soldier "ta tanga"
for buffalo. Evidently the soldiers curly hair,
dark skin, coats and fierce fighting style reminded
them of their sacred buffalo. The black soldiers
wore the title like a badge of honor and later incorporated
the image of a buffalo into their unit crests.
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