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Buffalo Soldiers at Evergreen Cemetery

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Contributed by: Clint Ingram on 5/31/2008

I went to a Memorial Day celebration at Evergreen cemetery this past weekend, and being my first time, I was very impressed. The 10th U.S. Cavalry Buffalo soldiers, Inc. of Colorado Springs and the Buffalo soldiers of the Rocky Mountains from Denver were present. They all came out this past Memorial Day to honor Trooper George W. Mason who served in the 10th U.S. Cavalry during the Civil war. He is the only known Buffalo soldier to be buried at Evergreen cemetery. I was honored to witness this tribute to Trooper Mason. It felt like I was going back in time. Seeing the dedication, of all Buffalo soldiers, to this one man was outstanding. This year was made even better by having them on horseback. This brought out the reality of the times. Having Trooper Rod McCorvey, as speaker, with his ability to talk to the public and explain why they were at Evergreen and who they were honoring made the event even better. I think the crowd was then able to understand, if not a history lesson, why they were there. I would like to thank George Payton, Jr Sgt. Major and troopers Andrew Bell, Jr, Jay Jackson, Vincent Wilson an Rod McCorvey for there participation. Not to forget Mathew Antwone and Travis Green from the Denver chapter and all who participated in this event. I also want to thank Ted 'Gopher' Malone of the Patriot Guard Riders. They came out to post colors on the main road, at Evergreen cemetery, for the Buffalo soldiers. That was the best sight I had ever seen. The Patriot Guard also posted colors for the Bagpipers. Thanks. Thanks to all of you. Thanks to Will deBoer, Director of Evergreen Cemetery, for making all this happen along with the Everegreen Cemetery Benevolent Society. I think we all should honor our fallen soilders, of all wars or conflicts, in any way we can so that no one forgets the sacrifices that are made for our freedom. We should pass this on to our children so that they will understand what it takes to be free. There are 3 people in which I would like to remember. Leo Ingram WWII veteran. Clinton Armatis. Survivor U.S.S. Rutledge. And Tropper John Smith, 10th U.S. Cavalry Buffalo Soldier who passed away this past year.

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