Washington, D.C.— Congressmembers Marilyn Strickland (D-WA-10) and Andy Kim (D-NJ-03) introduced the Buffalo Soldiers Congressional Gold Medal Act of 2023 to honor the Buffalo Soldiers and their tremendous contributions and sacrifice to our country.
“The fierceness and tenacity of the Buffalo Soldiers underscored their essential role as patriots who influenced our nation,” said Congresswoman Strickland. “Approximately 40,000 Buffalo Soldiers fought to protect American freedoms and ideals, even as they faced discrimination as Black Americans who served our nation. It is well past time to honor and thank them posthumously with a much-deserved Congressional Gold Medal.”
“The Buffalo Soldiers represent the best of America, working tirelessly and selflessly to break down barriers for future generations simply by serving. Their example is a beacon of inspiration and their bravery deserves recognition with the highest honor Congress has to offer,” said Congressman Kim. “I am proud to represent the 24th Infantry Regimental Combat Team and remember the first time I met with Buffalo Soldier veterans and heard their personal experience and their stories. They made me feel that everyone in America should learn about the Buffalo Soldiers. Their decades of service through numerous conflicts began during a time when racism and segregation were barriers and a constant threat. I hope this recognition can show our country’s gratitude for their service, and I urge members on both sides of the aisle to support this bill.”
Read the text of the bill here.
BACKGROUND:
In 1866, Congress created six all-Black peacetime regiments to protect settlers, build roads and other infrastructure, and guard U.S. mail in the Western frontier. Buffalo Soldiers would go on to serve in military operations including the Spanish American War, World War I, World War II, and the Korean War.
The Buffalo soldiers’ impact reached across the country as the U.S. forged its national parks. They not only served in combat and as protectors around the country, but they also broke down barriers and demanded civil rights. The all-Black regiments served during a time of segregation in the U.S. military, and faced bigotry and discrimination, often from those they were assigned to protect.
Congresswoman Marilyn Strickland serves as a Member of the House Armed Services Committee and the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee. She is one of the first Korean-American women elected to Congress and the first African-American to represent the Pacific Northwest at the federal level.