64th Annual Buffalo Soldier Memorial Ceremony

By Jennifer L. Warren

WEST POINT – “Without them, I would not have existed.”

Keynote Speaker, General Vincent K. Brooks, United States Military Academy Class of 1980, Retired, relayed these words Sunday afternoon, as he stood in front of the lofty, proud and iconic statue bearing the likeness of Buffalo Soldier, Staff Sergeant, Sanders H. Matthews.

Here, on the deeply symbolic USMA Buffalo Soldier Field grounds, the 64th Annual Buffalo Soldier Ceremony had just concluded, and Brooks, the Keynote Speaker, had delivered incisive words on the indelible footprints these men left, not only on the nation, but the world, and not only stamped on Black soldiers, but all people.

“I vividly recall being thrilled, feeling a deep sense of pride, when we revealed this statue in 2021, and seeing Sergeant Sanders sitting on that horse, truly capturing an example of expertise, strength and honor,” emphasized General Brooks. “Creating those images and feelings are the real purpose of art.” Brooks continued, “Sanders would not want it (today) to be about him, but all Buffalo Soldiers, the more than 30 classes trained by them and all of the families and community that supported them; that is an impact that is hard to measure.”

It’s a resounding, timeless legacy riddled with high principles of integrity, valor, leadership, grit and perseverance, refusing to succumb to any personal or professional challenge that presented itself. They are men whose rich history is defined by patrolling the frontier, managing our national parks, serving in combat in Cuba, fighting in the Second World War, and locally-as well as perhaps most profoundly- at USMA teaching cadets how to ride and command horses, service analogous with values most treasured by the Army. They are actions, laden with inspiring character, that continue to merit our attention and respect, serving as examples of excellence for all to aspire to, statues to be erected and wreaths to be laid down.

“This event continues to remain so very special for service members, veterans and the community and all who believe and want to pay tribute to the memory and legacy of the Buffalo Soldiers of the 9th and 10th Calvary Regiments who served right here at the United States Military Academy,” said Dr. Aundrea Matthews, granddaughter of Staff Sergeant Matthews, whose symbolic likeness adorns the statue on Buffalo Soldier Field. “These were the best of the best stationed here, and it’s important for people to know their contributions to the entire nation; these were human beings who heard the call and responded.”

And it’s that response that made all the difference for people like General Brooks, who credits their unwavering fight, revered professionalism and immeasurable valor as precepts which paved the way for all he-as well as countless others- were able to accomplish. Their presence not only altered history, making them a, “part of American History, not just Black History,” according to “KC,” a 15 year veteran member of the Buffalo Soldiers of the New Jersey Chapter who has been attending this Ceremony since 2013, helping our military thrive, but continues to serve as a potent connection, bridging the past to the present in priceless ways.

“What Sergeant Sanders would want us all to remember is our own service and calling and how it should measure up to the Buffalo Soldiers,” said General Brooks. “These soldiers were examples of professionalism and service that brought together classes, and they still continue to represent that same honor, integrity and character, which still matter and endure generation to generation.” Brooks added, “Let us leave here inspired to lead and love.”