Members of the Fort Sill community and the Buffalo Soldiers gathered on Friday to honor the builders of Fort Sill. A plaque was unveiled on the Buffalo Soldiers trail noting the historic impact of the Buffalo Soldiers on Fort Sill and the American West.
“The marker is a historic reminder of the accomplishments of the Buffalo Soldiers not only for Fort Sill but for our country,” said Julia Sibilla, Deputy Garrison Commander.
The Buffalo Soldiers built Fort Sill, according to Sibilla, but their primary duty was to provide protection for those venturing into the American West. The majority of the Buffalo Soldiers were former slaves who were granted freedom for joining the Union Army.
“The primary accomplishment of the Buffalo Soldiers was to build the installation from the ground up,” said Sibilla. “When I arrived here nearly five years ago, I saw that there was only one historical marker on the installation, and that really surprised me. I realized that the Buffalo Soldiers have not traditionally gotten the recognition that they deserved … they allowed the West to be built.”
Members of the Buffalo Soldiers 9th and 10th Post Cavalry Division were also present for the unveiling.
“We chose this day because this is the birthday of Lt. Henry O. Flipper, who was the first Black graduate from West Point, and this was his first duty station … this is another way that we can spread the word of the history of the Buffalo Soldiers.” said Buffalo Soldiers 9th and 10th Cavalry President Tony Washington.
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