Born into slavery, Young overcame immense obstacles, driven by his mother’s emphasis on education. After West Point, he joined the all-Black 9th Cavalry, serving on the Western frontier.
- Young became the Army’s highest-ranking Black officer during his lifetime.
- In 1903, he became the first African American to serve as an acting superintendent for Sequoia and General Grant National Parks, overseeing road construction and park protection.
- Educator: Taught military science at Wilberforce University, a historically Black college, inspiring many.
- Served as a military attaché in Haiti and the Dominican Republic, providing crucial intelligence.
- Civil Rights Leader: His dedication and success challenged racial prejudice, inspiring future generations.
- BUFFALO SOLDIERS KEY FACTS
- Formation: Created by Congress in 1866 through the Army Organization Act, following the Civil War.
- Units: Comprised of the 9th and 10th Cavalry
- Native Americans called them “Buffalo Soldiers” due to their dark skin and curly hair resembling a buffalo’s mane and their courageous fighting spirit, which the soldiers embraced as an honor.
- Duties: Escorted settlers, built roads and telegraph lines, protected railroads, and participated in campaigns against Native American tribes on the Western frontier.
- National Parks: Served as some of the first park rangers, protecting Yosemite and Sequoia National Parks from poachers and building trails.
- Legacy: Despite facing racism, they achieved military excellence, securing rights as citizens
THANKS FOR VISITING, STEVE