As we celebrate Memorial Day, get some insight on the Forerunners of the Buffalo Soldiers and other Troops who served our country

The United States Colored Troops (USCT) were regiments of the United States Army during the American Civil War that were composed ofAfrican American ("colored") soldiers. By the end of the Civil War, the 175 regiments of the USCT constituted approximately one-tenth of the Union Army. The men of the USCT were the forerunners of the famous Buffalo Soldiers.
Article: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/United_States_Colored_Troops