Day Hosts Buffalo Soldiers Award Ceremony

NEW CITY – County Executive Ed Day and Director Susan Branam of the Rockland County Veterans Service Agency recognized four local veterans for their outstanding service during a special ceremony at Rockland Community College on Wednesday, February 16.

The 2021 Buffalo Soldiers Awards were presented to local United States Army veteran Walter Khan and Navy Air Reserve veteran Eugene Fields and the 2022 Buffalo Soldiers Awards were given to United States Navy veteran Nathaniel Harvey Jr. and United States Army veteran Dr. Abigaile Taylor.

A “Buffalo Soldier” is the nickname first given to members of African American cavalry regiments of the U.S. Army who served in the western United States from 1867 to 1896, noted for their courage and discipline. The Buffalo Soldiers Award is presented annually to outstanding African American veterans who reside in Rockland County.

“It takes a certain kind of person to place your own life on hold to put your country first but each one of these awardees did it without hesitation,” said County Executive Ed Day.

“There’s no question, the freedoms we enjoy today would not be possible without the men and women who make the brave choice to serve our nation, including these local heroes, and it is my pleasure to recognize their courage.”

Walter Khan was drafted into the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War where he served as a combat medic and telephone technician. He was honorably discharged two years later but he continues to serve his community by organizing veteran events and is a proud member of Nyack American Legion Post 310.

Eugene Fields served in the Navy Air Reserve in 1963 for eight years, completing his duty honorably with the rank of First-Class Petty Officer. Fields is also a member of the Rockland Coalition to End the New Jim Crow.

Nathaniel Harvey grew up in Spring Valley and joined the U.S. Navy in 1988 at the age of 18. In 1989, he was aboard the USS Iowa when an explosion killed 47 of his shipmates. He now spends his free time mentoring Spring Valley’s youth and is a member of the American Legion of Suffern.

Lastly, Dr. Abigaile Taylor served in the U.S. Army beginning as a Human Resources Clerk for about 10 years. She also managed the Yellow Ribbon Program for the 99th Regional Support Command from 2010-2013, ensuring over 5,000 soldiers and their families received top training, education, and employment opportunities.

“We thank these individuals for their bravery and continued commitment to our residents. We are proud to list your name among the proud African American men and women who have been named to the Rockland County Buffalo Soldiers in years past,” concluded County Executive Day.