Washington, DC – Today, Congressman Filemon Vela (D-TX) introduced a Resolution honoring the Buffalo Soldiers who were dishonorably discharged and ultimately had their honorable service restored following the 1906 Brownsville Raid.
On August 13, 1906, the Buffalo Soldiers were accused of the murder of a white bartender and a lengthy trial ensued. This historic event of racial injustice against the 167 Buffalo Soldiers of the 25th Infantry Regiment stationed at Fort Brown resulted in President Theodore Roosevelt dishonorably discharging the Buffalo Soldiers, even though proof of culpability had not been found. The Buffalo Soldiers were eventually vindicated and honorably discharged in 1972 under President Nixon.
“The Buffalo Soldiers of the 25th Infantry Regiment will always be a part of the identity and heritage of South Texas, and deserve recognition for their honorable service to the nation. The injustices that occurred in Brownsville in 1906 should never be forgotten,” said Congressman Vela. “This resolution recognizes the dedication and courage of the Buffalo Soldiers of the 25th Infantry and encourages all States to include their history and contributions in educational curricula for students around the country.”
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