Memories of Buffalo Soldiers at Memorial Day Service in Dobbins Heights

DOBBINS HEIGHTS — Attendees at Friday’s Memorial Day service received a “sometimes forgotten” military history lesson: the Buffalo Soldiers.

Trooper Leanna Rogers, president of the Greater North Carolina Chapter of the 9th and 10th (Horse) Cavalry National Association of Buffalo Soldiers, gave the presentation.

In the 1800s, Congress authorized the formation of six all-black units in the U.S. Army.

“They allowed these black soldiers to serve their country,” Rogers said. “Before that, soldiers fought in every war since colonial times, but they were never allowed to bear arms (in peacetime).”

The 9th and 10th Cavalry were part of the regiments, along with four infantry units and troops that included former slaves, Civil War soldiers and freemen, Rogers said.

Buffalo soldiers were responsible for escorting settlers and protecting cattle herds and the railroad, according to Rogers, although cavalry units engaged in battles with Native Americans – hence their name.

“The Indians… called them ‘Buffalo Soldiers’ because the skin of the black soldiers reminded them of the skin of the buffalo,” Rogers said. “The hair of the black soldiers reminded them of the mane of the buffalo… and their name stuck with them through the generations. »

Rogers added that the units served “with courage and patriotism at a time when it was difficult to serve a country that seemed not to want you.”

The organization that Rogers belongs to was created to keep this legacy alive and has approximately 30 chapters. Most of the members are former military personnel. Rogers herself served in the National Guard for nearly three decades.

“It’s a legacy we can be proud of,” she said, adding that the Buffalo Soldiers paved the way for the Montford Point Marines and the Tuskegee Airmen.