[Congressional Record Volume 159, Number 102 (Wednesday, July 17, 2013)]
[Senate]
[Page S5753]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
RECOGNIZING THE BUFFALO SOLDIERS
Ms. LANDRIEU. Mr. President, I rise today to ask my colleagues to
join me in recognizing the 9th and 10th (Horse) Cavalry Association of
the Buffalo Soldiers, who on July 22-28, 2013, will celebrate their
147th Anniversary Reunion in New Orleans, LA. The cavalry association
will honor allied members who have demonstrated tremendous work and
leadership in the association, their community, or the United States
through their exceptional service.
On July 28, 1866, the 29th Congress passed the Army Organization Act,
creating two cavalry and six overall regiments of African-American
troops. The 9th Cavalry was activated in New Orleans, LA, and the 10th
was called into service at Fort Levenworth, KS, beginning the Buffalo
Soldiers' rich heritage of professional service to their communities
and the Nation. The cavalry units of the Buffalo Soldiers played an
integral role in the settlement and development of the West in the
crucial years that followed the Civil War, serving courageously and
victoriously on the frontier from Texas to Montana.
Buffalo Soldiers wear the name proudly and respectfully, sharing a
common passion for the historical significance and contributions of
those who have served before them. The Buffalo Soldiers performed
admirably in and out of battle, assisting in the economic growth and
cultural development of Western territories and communities. Today, the
Buffalo Soldiers honor their heritage through mentorship, community
service, and volunteerism. In this capacity, the soldiers work
tirelessly to provide education and support services in numerous
communities throughout the Nation. Their outstanding leadership in
these endeavors and services they perform continue to provide
unparalleled contributions to the citizens and communities impacted and
will benefit generations to come.
In 2001, at the 135th Anniversary Reunion of the 9th and 10th Cavalry
Association, Mr. George Jones, along with nine members of the cavalry
association, was awarded a national charter to form the Greater New
Orleans Area Chapter #22. This chapter was the first in the State of
Louisiana to receive a chapter charter from the national office. The
Greater New Orleans Area Chapter has embodied the values and mission
embraced by the 9th and 10th Cavalry for 147 years, and has
continuously educated Louisiana's communities on the invaluable
traditions and contributions of the Buffalo Soldiers in the service of
the United States.
The 9th and 10th (Horse) Cavalry Association of Buffalo Soldiers has
been and continues to be an inspiration to all those who have been
impacted by their tireless service. It is with my greatest sincerity
that I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing the hard work,
dedication, and many accomplishments of these incredible leaders.
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