[Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 125 (Thursday, July 30, 2026)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E753-E754]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




         HONORING THE 160TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE BUFFALO SOLDIERS

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. FRANK J. MRVAN

                               of indiana

                    in the house of representatives

                        Thursday, July 30, 2026

  Mr. MRVAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise to honor the 160th Anniversary of the 
formation of the Buffalo Soldiers and their invaluable contributions to 
our Nation.
  On July 28, 1866, the Army Reorganization Act established six all-
Black regiments in the United States Army. These six units were the 9th 
and 10th Cavalry Regiments and the 38th, 39th, 40th, and 41st Infantry 
Regiments. This legislation marked the first time African Americans 
were allowed to enlist in the United States Army, whereas previously 
they had only been allowed to serve in volunteer units during wartime.
  Despite facing severe systemic racial discrimination and prejudice, 
the Buffalo Soldiers made significant contributions to the United 
States Army. While aiding in the expansion of the American West, these 
all-Black units were given the name ``Buffalo Soldiers'' by Native 
Americans in the Great Plains. This nickname referred to the soldiers' 
valor and fierce spirit, as well as the coats made of buffalo fur they

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wore during the winter months. They fought in the American Indian Wars, 
rode into Cuba alongside Theodore Roosevelt and the Rough Riders at the 
start of the Spanish-American War, and soon after served in the 
Philippine-American War. These regiments also played a pivotal role 
overseas in the World Wars, as more than 200,000 African Americans 
served in World War I and more than 1,000,000 African Americans served 
in World War II.
  In addition to their service in the United States Army, the Buffalo 
Soldiers were among the first park rangers assigned to preserve and 
protect public lands after the creation of the National Parks Service. 
While defending parks from fires, poaching, and littering, the Buffalo 
Soldiers also helped build campsites, roads, and trails. They are 
credited with creating the first marked nature trail and building the 
first museum in a national park.
  On July 26, 1948, President Harry Truman signed Executive Order 9981 
mandating the desegregation of the United States military. However, the 
executive order was not enforced until the Korean War in 1951, when 
Buffalo Soldier regiments were dissolved and soldiers were reassigned 
to integrated units. Over the course of 85 years, 40,000 Buffalo 
Soldiers selflessly served our country in a variety of peacetime and 
combat roles. The highest military distinction of the Congressional 
Medal of Honor has been awarded to 23 members of the Buffalo Soldiers.
  As we honor the 250th anniversary of the founding of our country, I 
urge my colleagues to pass H.R. 1437, the Buffalo Soldiers 
Congressional Gold Medal Act of 2025, to award the Congressional Gold 
Medal to the Buffalo Soldier regiments in recognition of their vital 
service to the United States. For decades, the Buffalo Soldiers fought 
in conflicts abroad all while battling civil rights injustices at home. 
For their courage, perseverance, and patriotism, the Buffalo Soldiers 
are worthy of the highest praise.
  Mr. Speaker, I ask that you and all my distinguished colleagues join 
me in honoring the historic legacy and significant contributions of the 
Buffalo Soldiers on the notable occasion of the 160th anniversary of 
their formation.

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