Happy Artifact Friday! This week, we’re highlighting the iconic Buffalo Soldier patch
worn by the soldiers of the 92nd Infantry Division. These brave men were part of an all-
African American unit that served with distinction in the U.S. Army, fighting in every
major conflict from the Spanish-American War to the Korean War. In addition to their
combat roles, they also served as park rangers for a brief period.
The Buffalo Soldier patch—featuring a black buffalo on a gold circle—symbolized the
strength, resilience, and perseverance of these soldiers. It became a badge of honor
that represented their courage in battle, including the crucial role they played in
breaking enemy lines during the Gothic Line campaign in World War II.
The name "Buffalo Soldiers" dates back to 1866 when the U.S. Army first formed all-
Black regiments. Native American tribes, impressed by their fierce fighting spirit, gave
them the nickname, likening their determination to the mighty buffalo. Over the years,
Buffalo Soldiers fought in the Indian Wars, the Spanish-American War, and later, as part
of the 92nd Infantry Division during World War I.
The 92nd Infantry Division was established in 1917 and became one of only two Black
combat divisions during World War I. Although they fought for their country, they still
faced discrimination—while most of the soldiers were Black, many of the officers were
white. Despite this adversity, the men of the 92nd demonstrated immense bravery and
skill in France, earning recognition for their valor.
When World War II began, the 92nd Division was reactivated in 1942 and sent to Italy in
1944 to battle German forces. Despite enduring racism in the military, their success on
the battlefield helped pave the way for desegregation in the U.S. Armed Forces,
culminating in President Harry S. Truman’s Executive Order 9981 in 1948, which called
for the integration of the military.
The Buffalo Soldiers of the 92nd Infantry Division—and all those who came before
them—were trailblazers, breaking down barriers and showing extraordinary courage in
the face of injustice. They fought for a country that often didn’t fight for them, yet their
strength, pride, and resilience changed history.
Today, the Buffalo Soldier patch stands as a powerful reminder of their contributions
and sacrifices. Their legacy is not only worthy of recognition during Black History Month,
but every day. The impact of these soldiers on both military history and American
society cannot be overstated.
In honor of Black History Month, this Artifact Friday post is brought to you by Kyla
Cooper, a teen member of the Northwest Arkansas Chapter of Jack and Jill of America,
Inc. The chapter’s Teen Auxiliary Group has collaborated with the Arkansas Air &
Military Museum to host the Black Flight: Celebrating the Tuskegee Airmen and African
Americans in Aviation exhibit. Be sure to visit it today and explore the rich history of
African Americans in aviation and the military!
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