About this Unit
The 24th Infantry Regiment, originally formed in 1869, is one of the United States Army’s historic African American units known as the “Buffalo Soldiers.” The regiment served on the Western frontier, helping to maintain order and participating in the Indian Wars. The 24th Infantry later fought with distinction in the Spanish-American War, the Philippine-American War, World War II, and the Korean War. The unit was deactivated in 1951 during the Army’s integration, but its legacy continues to be honored for its long record of bravery and service.
Historical Facts
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Historic Origins: The 24th Infantry Regiment was originally formed in 1869 as part of the reorganization of the U.S. Army following the American Civil War, primarily composed of African American soldiers known as "Buffalo Soldiers."
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Buffalo Soldiers: The 24th Infantry was one of four all-black regiments established after the Civil War, earning a reputation for discipline and effectiveness on the Western frontier.
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Spanish-American War: The 24th Infantry saw combat in the Spanish-American War, notably participating in the Battle of San Juan Hill in Cuba in 1898.
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Philippine-American War: After the Spanish-American War, the regiment was deployed to the Philippines where it fought in the Philippine-American War from 1899 to 1902.
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Houston Riot of 1917: The regiment was involved in the notorious Houston Riot, where racial tensions and mistreatment of black soldiers led to a violent uprising and subsequent court-martials.
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World War II: The 24th Infantry served in the Pacific Theater, fighting in battles in the Solomon Islands, New Guinea, and the Philippines.
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Korean War: The 24th Infantry Regiment was one of the first units to engage North Korean forces in 1950, distinguishing itself at the Battle of Yechon and other early engagements.
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Desegregation: The 24th Infantry was one of the last segregated African American units in the U.S. Army and was deactivated in 1951 as part of the military's desegregation efforts.
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Reactivation: The regiment was reactivated in 1995 as part of the 25th Infantry Division, continuing its legacy within the modern U.S. Army.
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Legacy and Honors: The 24th Infantry’s history is commemorated at the Buffalo Soldiers National Museum in Houston, Texas, and the unit’s valor is remembered as a pivotal chapter in African American military history.
