Southwest Association of Buffalo Soldiers

08/05/2026

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We commemorate the anniversary of the creation of the Buffalo Soldiers, established by Congress on July 28, 1866. These courageous African American Soldiers built a legacy of valor, perseverance, and service while overcoming extraordinary challenges and discrimination. Their unwavering commitment helped shape the history of the United States Army and our Nation.

Among their ranks was Cathay Williams, the only known woman to serve as a Buffalo Soldier. Born into slavery in Missouri, Williams enlisted in 1866 under the name William Cathay, disguising herself as a man in order to answer the call to serve. Assigned to the 38th U.S. Infantry Regiment, she served with determination until illness led to her discharge. Her remarkable story stands as a testament to the courage of women who found ways to serve their country, even when the opportunity was denied to them.

As we celebrate 251 years of women's service to our Nation, we honor Cathay Williams and the countless women whose patriotism, resilience, and dedication have strengthened America's Armed Forces since before our Nation's founding.

Since 1775, she was there. Her story is America's story.

Help us ensure stories like Cathay Williams' are never forgotten by supporting the Military Women's Memorial as we preserve, honor, and share the legacy of the more than 3 million women who have defended our Nation.

Register Your Story of Service in the Military Women's Memorial National Register - https://womensmemorial.org/make-herstory/

07/30/2026

National Buffalo Soldiers Day weekend was more than a celebration—it was a powerful reminder that history is best preserved when we have the privilege of learning from those who lived it.

As our nation commemorates its 250Th year, it is especially fitting that we honor the men and women whose courage, sacrifice, and service helped shape the America we know today. Their stories are not just history—they are an essential part of our national legacy.

One of the most unforgettable moments was welcoming our keynote speaker, Mr. Anderson Pollard, a 100-year-old WWII Buffalo Soldier and Purple Heart recipient. Standing in the presence of a living hero whose service, sacrifice, and resilience helped shape our nation’s history is an experience few ever have. We truly stand on the shoulders of giants.

My heartfelt appreciation goes to SWABS President Demetria Warren for her leadership and vision, and to the dedicated members of the Southwest Association of Buffalo Soldiers (SWABS) who worked tirelessly behind the scenes to make this extraordinary weekend possible.

A special thank you to SGM (Ret.) Charles Hancock, our Vice President and historian, whose passion and commitment continue to preserve and share the rich legacy of the Buffalo Soldiers. And thank you to Glenn Rawls, whose unwavering care and dedication as Mr. Anderson Pollard’s personal es**rt throughout the weekend ensured he was supported every step of the way with dignity, respect, and honor.

To our partners, sponsors, volunteers, and the entire community—thank you for helping create an event that not only honored our nation’s history but strengthened our commitment to preserving it for generations to come.

Some moments become memories. Others become part of our legacy. This was one for the history books.

07/30/2026

There are moments in life that remind us history isn’t just found in books—it lives in the people who carried it.

At 100 years old, Purple Heart recipient, WWII veteran, and Buffalo Soldier Mr. Anderson Pollard returned to Fort Huachuca, Arizona, 82 years after first arriving there as an 18-year-old soldier in 1944 before departing for Italy aboard a Liberty ship in service to our nation.

During his visit, we (Southwest Association of Buffalo Soldiers) had the extraordinary privilege of welcoming him back to the place where his military journey began. Together, we toured Fort Huachuca, Sierra Vista, Camp Naco, and even took him home to experience the rich history of Bisbee and Tombstone. His sense of wonder, gratitude, and appreciation for the welcome he received touched all of us. It was a powerful reminder that honoring our veterans is about more than remembering history—it’s about celebrating the living legacies among us.

This clip captures his emotional return to Fort Huachuca, where it all began. Standing in the presence of a 100-year-old American hero whose life reflects courage, sacrifice, resilience, and service was truly one of those once-in-a-lifetime moments that I will cherish forever.

07/27/2026

04/22/2026