Historical Foundations and the Legacy of the Buffalo Soldiers, Tuskegee Airmen, and the 6888th.

STORIES WORTH SALUTING

Institute for Black Military Heritage at New Mount Rose, Fort Worth

Historical Foundations and the Legacy of the Buffalo Soldiers, Tuskegee Airmen, and the 6888th.

FORT WORTH, TEXAS – On July 28, 1866, Congress established the 9th and 10th Cavalry Regiments along with the 38th, 39th, 40th, and 41st Infantry Regiments—units later re-designated as the 24th and 25th Infantry Regiments. These formations laid the groundwork for what history would come to honor as the Buffalo Soldiers. In 1992, President George H. W. Bush proclaimed Buffalo Soldiers Day on July 28, recognizing these African American soldiers for their extraordinary valor. He declared:

“Despite suffering the discrimination and the injustice that plagued all Black Americans during the days of segregation, the members of the 9th and 10th Cavalry regiments served with pride and distinction.”

Many of these brave men were formerly enslaved or Civil War veterans. They confronted overwhelming adversity to protect settlers, build essential infrastructure, secure an expanding frontier, and engage in multiple conflicts. For example, the 10th Cavalry Regiment played an indispensable role at Fort Leavenworth—safeguarding the construction of the Pacific Railroad and fighting critical battles near the Saline River in Kansas. The term “Buffalo Soldiers” is said to honor their indomitable fighting spirit—a comparison inspired by Native American tribes who admired their perseverance, likening them to the mighty buffalo.

In later conflicts, African American servicemen and servicewomen continued this proud tradition. The Tuskegee Airmen, for instance, broke new ground as the first Black aviators in the U.S. Army Air Forces, serving in the 332nd Fighter Group and smashing racial barriers in the skies with exemplary performance in escort missions and air combat. Equally inspiring were the 6888th Central Postal Directory Battalion of the Women’s Army Corps—a remarkable all-Black unit predominantly composed of women whose tireless efforts in processing and delivering mail proved vital in sustaining troop morale across Europe during World War II.

Since 2018, the New Mount Rose Missionary Baptist Church has celebrated this enduring legacy through community initiatives such as the Buffalo Soldiers Room, Fort 24th, and the Buffalo Soldiers 4-H Club. Collaborations with Texas A&M AgriLife Extension and Prairie View A&M University have further enriched these endeavors. Now, with the steadfast support of the Texas Buffalo Soldiers Association and other local partners, we proudly establish the Institute for Black Military Heritage. Our mission is clear: to preserve, present, protect, and promote the full spectrum of Black military contributions for future generations.

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Black Military Presence Across American Wars and Conflicts

1. Continental Army, American Revolution

During America’s fight for independence, African Americans—both free and enslaved—stood shoulder to shoulder with their compatriots in the Continental Army and local militias. These early patriots, men and women alike, defied societal restrictions to contribute decisively to the nation’s birth. Their courage and commitment laid the cornerstone for a legacy of service and resilience that continues to inspire generations.

2. Civil War – 54th Massachusetts Infantry Regiment

The 54th Massachusetts Infantry Regiment remains one of the most celebrated African American units in history. Formed in 1863, this regiment broke barriers as one of the first officially sanctioned Black units in the Union Army. Under the valiant leadership of Colonel Robert Gould Shaw, the 54th distinguished itself—most notably at the assault on Fort Wagner—challenging entrenched stereotypes and paving the way for the broader inclusion of Black soldiers and support personnel during and after the Civil War.

3. Indian Wars – 10th Cavalry Regiment

In the tumultuous years following the Civil War, the 10th Cavalry Regiment—a key element of the celebrated Buffalo Soldiers—faced the myriad challenges of the American West. Their roles, which included safeguarding settlers, constructing vital infrastructures such as railroads, and engaging in fierce combat with Native American tribes, illustrate the breadth of Black military engagement. Their steadfast dedication and tactical proficiency significantly contributed to the nation’s westward expansion.

4. World War I & II – Harlem Hellfighters (369th Infantry Regiment)

The 369th Infantry Regiment, known as the Harlem Hellfighters, came to epitomize valor during World War I. Despite serving under French command due to segregationist policies at home, they spent more time in continuous combat than any other U.S. unit, earning global acclaim. Their legacy—steeped in relentless determination and sacrifice—continued to motivate and inspire Black servicemen and women, even as segregation persisted into World War II.

5. World War II – Tuskegee Airmen (332nd Fighter Group)

The Tuskegee Airmen were trailblazers as the first African American aviators in the U.S. Army Air Forces. Serving in the 332nd Fighter Group, these pilots, navigators, and support crews shattered long-held racial barriers and set exceptionally high standards in aerial combat. Their exemplary performance in bomber escort missions and air combat was critical to wartime operations and ultimately helped pave the path toward the desegregation of America’s armed services.

6. World War II – 6888th Central Postal Directory Battalion (Women’s Army Corps)

Often overlooked but immensely significant, the 6888th Central Postal Directory Battalion was an all-Black unit, predominantly composed of women in the Women’s Army Corps. Tasked with processing and delivering vast volumes of mail to U.S. troops stationed throughout Europe, they provided indispensable support that bolstered soldier morale. Their remarkable efficiency and unwavering commitment underscore the invaluable contributions made by Black servicewomen in non-combat roles during the war.

7. Korean War – 24th Infantry Regiment

The 24th Infantry Regiment carried the proud mantle of African American military service into the Korean War. Facing the severe challenges of a foreign battlefield and persistent racial bias, these soldiers—supported by their female counterparts in administrative and auxiliary roles—exhibited extraordinary bravery and resilience. Their distinguished performance reinforced the critical role of Black servicemen and servicewomen in adapting to modern warfare.

8. Vietnam War

In the Vietnam War, African American service members proved indispensable across both combat and support roles. Despite confronting additional layers of discrimination within the military system, their contributions on and off the battlefield significantly influenced the conflict’s strategic dynamics. Their service, including that of Black women in various technical and logistical positions, was pivotal in advancing both military effectiveness and the cause of civil rights at home.

9. Operation Desert Storm

During Operation Desert Storm, African American troops demonstrated exceptional leadership and adaptability in a rapidly evolving, high-tech conflict. Serving in key combat, logistical, and support roles, these soldiers and servicewomen exemplified the strategic advantages of diversity in modern warfare. Their contributions during this period reaffirmed the necessity of inclusive military practices when addressing global challenges.

10. Afghanistan War

In the protracted and multifaceted conflict in Afghanistan, African American service members tackled an array of challenges—from counterinsurgency operations to intelligence gathering and logistical support. Their performance across all military branches was marked by technical expertise, strong leadership, and a steadfast commitment to equality within the ranks, embodying the dual pursuit of national security and social justice.

11. Iraq War

In the dynamic urban warfare and strategic reconstruction environments of the Iraq War, Black soldiers and support personnel played vital roles in both direct combat and post-conflict stabilization efforts. Their technical expertise, tactical acumen, and resilient spirit were crucial in stabilizing conflict zones, while also igniting ongoing dialogue about military inclusivity and equal opportunity for all.

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The Mission of the Institute for Black Military Heritage

The Institute for Black Military Heritage is dedicated to ensuring that the stories of African American service members—past and present—are celebrated, understood, and preserved for future generations. Our mission is to:

• Preserve the tangible and intangible legacies of Black soldiers and servicewomen by safeguarding historical artifacts, records, and memories for posterity.

• Present these rich narratives in dynamic, engaging, and accessible formats that inspire awareness and appreciation.

• Protect our shared military heritage through rigorous research and the careful preservation of critical historical records.

• Promote sustained dialogue and recognition of Black military contributions, underscoring the vital importance of diversity, inclusion, and respect in the national story.

The courageous journeys chronicled above serve as a lasting reminder of the valor and sacrifice that have defined African American military service—from the American Revolution to modern conflicts. By preserving and promoting these storied legacies, the Institute for Black Military Heritage honors an enduring legacy that continues to inspire and shape our nation.

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Biography of Pastor Kyev Tatum, Founding Director

Pastor Kyev P. Tatum, Sr. is the visionary founding director of the Institute for Black Military Heritage. A revered community leader in Fort Worth, Pastor Tatum is also the President of the Ministers Justice Coalition of Texas and a dedicated partner with the Texas Buffalo Soldiers Association. As pastor of New Mount Rose Missionary Baptist Church, he has long championed historical preservation and community empowerment through initiatives such as the Buffalo Soldiers Room, Fort 24th, and the Buffalo Soldiers 4-H Club.

With decades of ministerial and community service experience, Pastor Tatum’s commitment to honoring Black military contributions springs from his own personal heritage and a deep-rooted belief in justice, equality, and the transformative power of history. His vision and leadership have inspired numerous initiatives that enrich the community and foster a deeper appreciation for the valor and sacrifice of African American service members. Under his guidance, the Institute for Black Military Heritage is poised to become a pivotal institution in preserving, presenting, protecting, and promoting the legacy of Black soldiers and servicewomen for future generations.

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Contact Information

For more information on the Institute for Black Military Heritage, please contact Pastor Kyev Tatum at:

Phone: 817-966-7625

Email: kptatum1@gmail.com

Website: www.newmountrose.com

Address: New Mount Rose, 2864 Mississippi Avenue, Fort Worth, Texas 76104