1. A Cut Above – The Buffalo Soldiers were distinguished not only for their valor but their discipline. Alcoholism was rampant in the Army at that time, but not among the all-black unit.
2. The Blueprint – Anything less than absolute courage was not an option. Buffalo Soldiers boasted the lowest court-martials and desertion rates in the Army, despite racism and poor conditions.
3. Getting Their Due – In 20 years – from 1870 to 1890 – 20 Buffalo Soldiers earned the military's highest accolade: The Medal of Honor.
4. Heroism By Any Other Name – The prevailing myth about the Buffalo Soldiers nickname is that its origins lie in the physical appearance of the black soldiers. Over time, a more likely explanation has emerged: the Comanche Native Americans christened the group in 1871 based on reverence for the buffalo and an abiding respect for the soldiers' peerless bravery.
5. Onward – After displaying unrivaled fearlessness in the Indian Wars, the Buffalo Soldiers joined Gen. John Pershing's quest for Mexican freedom fighter Pancho Villa.
6. Service Of A Different Kind – Between 1891 and 1913, about 500 Buffalo Soldiers earned coveted roles as protectors of Yosemite and Sequoia national parks.
7. Man of Honor – Military icon Gen. Benjamin O. Davis was the first black man to lead the cavalry.
8. Secret Service – Cathay Williams is the only woman known to serve with the heralded group.
9. Living History – Mark Matthews, the last surviving Buffalo Soldier, died at 111 years old in 2005.