HONORING THE 160TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE BUFFALO SOLDIERS

On 2026-07-30, Representative Frank J. Mrvan (D-IN-1) delivered a floor speech titled "HONORING THE 160TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE BUFFALO SOLDIERS" in the House.

HONORING THE 160TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE BUFFALO SOLDIERS

Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 125 (Thursday, July 30, 2026) [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 [[Page E754]] 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. ____________________

Referenced legislation: HR1437