Buffalo Soldiers Part Of A Strong American Tradition

by Chuck N. Baker

(Las Vegas) — The United States of America has always been defended by a coalition of diverse and dedicated military regiments that stem from the larger picture of our armed forces. They range from the volunteers of the Colonial Army to the Rough Riders to the Doughboys to the Tuskegee Airmen to the Green Berets to the Navy Seals and others too numerous to mention. Too often these vintage but admirable units are not afforded their due in the modern climate of our nation’s history. But Nevada has been in the forefront of changing that. The Silver State has a record of recognizing and paying homage to those individuals and organizations that deserve well-earned honors and praise. Organizations such as the Buffalo Soldiers.

African Americans have proudly served in every war the United States has undertaken. The history of the Buffalo Soldiers dates back to 1866, when Congress enacted legislation allowing Black warriors to serve in six segregated units. Many of the men were former slaves, including many who defended the North in the Civil War. Fast forward to 2019, Nevada initiated Buffalo Soldiers Day Statewide. Last month, the second such annual celebration was held at the Grant Sawyer building, with many modern-day descendants of those in 1866 as well as other interested veterans and civilians being recognized and honored.

One by one many members of today’s local Buffalo Soldiers unit, as well as other celebrated Black Nevadans, were called forward and their contributions to the State fully noted. Proclamations, certificates and copies of a special calendar highlighting photographs and details of many of them were presented to the honorees.

Carla Stice is active in the Buffalo Soldiers, a member of the current cavalry with the title of Indian Scout. “I’m half Cherokee,“ she explained. Her specialty in the organization is to train some half-dozen horses that are used in parades and other public events. “I also enjoy teaching, and getting out in the world to let people know about Buffalo Soldiers. I grew up in Las Vegas and people don’t know about us,” Stice said. She first learned about the group when members came to her church to discuss the role of the organization.

Anne Monterio is the group’s secretary. “When I moved to Las Vegas from Michigan, I was interested in working with horses. A neighbor was a member of the Buffalo Soldiers and I found it fascinating to learn about them.” Today the 82-year-old lady takes notes and sends out news for the group. It’s not as much fun as riding horseback, but it’s an important part of keeping the members, and the public, up to date on the organization’s activities.

Kelly Hawthorne is the group’s quartermaster. The Navy veteran said his family history goes back to WWI, when his parents and grandparents served in the military. He said today’s Buffalo Soldiers accepts members of all ethnic backgrounds. One of the groups functions is to award college tuition to deserving high school students, giving them charitable funds to “make it easier on their pockets,” he said.

Nevada Secretary of State Barbara Cegavske read from a proclamation issued by Gov. Steve Sisolak. It said in part, “Whereas, as we salute those courageous African-American warriors who served with honor, often while struggling against racism, bigotry, and discrimination, we celebrate the service of the veterans who carry on their legacy; the African-American Soldiers, Marines, Sailors, Airmen and Women, and members of the Coast Guard who continue to serve with distinction.”

Proclamations were also presented by staff members representing Nevada’s elected officials including Senators Catherine Cortez Masto and Jackie Rosen, and Representatives Dina Titus, Steven Horsford and Susie Lee.

Kat Miller, Director of the Nevada Department of Veterans Services headquartered in Reno that sponsored the event, was unable to attend. But she said the department was proud to have the opportunity to salute the Buffalo Soldiers. “Today we highlight their contributions while celebrating the service of the veterans who carry on their legacy.”

Buffalo Soldier Jonjon Everet was moved by the events of the morning. “Nevada is the only State that honors Buffalo Soldiers,” he proudly explained, and he’s already looking forward to next year’s celebration.

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