DAR presents Buffalo Soldiers April 15  

NEWARK - The Col. Wm. Prescott Chapter National Society Daughters of the American Revolution is sponsoring a national defense program presented by representatives of Buffalo Soldiers at 1 p.m. Wednesday, April 15 at the chapter house at 119 High St. in Newark.

Much has changed since the days of the Buffalo Soldiers, including the integration of all military servicemen and women. However, the story of the Buffalo Soldiers remains one of unsurpassed courage and patriotism, and will be forever a significant part of the history of America.

Throughout the era of the Indian Wars, approximately 20 percent of the United States Cavalry troopers were black. They fought over 177 engagements. The combat prowess, bravery, tenaciousness and looks on the battlefield, inspired the Indians to call them Buffalo Soldiers. Many Indians believe the name symbolized the Native American's respect for the Buffalo Soldiers' bravery and valor. Buffalo Soldiers, through the years, have worn the name with pride.

African Americans have fought with distinction in all of our country's military engagements. However, some of their most notable contributions and sacrifices came during the Civil War. During that conflict, more than 180,000 African Americans wore the Union Army blue. Another 30,000 served in the Navy, and 200,000 served as workers on labor, engineering, hospital and other military support projects.

The public is cordially invited to come and talk with Cpt. Charles Price, the first African American Police Officer in the city of Rochester. He has documentation that his grandfather was part of a United States Colored Troop during the Civil War. George Whitfield, the VFW District 8 commander and past Monroe County commander and Bing C. Reaves Sr., police sergeant for the city of Rochester, master sergeant in the United States Army Reserves with 34 years military service and national recruiter for the Veterans of Foreign Wars will also speak. They will present a brief history of the Buffalo Soldiers, discussing the uniforms, weapons and equipment, as well as play bugle calls from that era.

Prospective members are always welcome. For more information about DAR, Regent Patricia Petty at 589- 3661 or e-mail Pethive@verizon.net or Registrar Anne Hotchkiss at 589-8011 or e-mail: 2ASH@verizon.com.

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