Buffalo Soldier Dianne L. Ray Rolling Thunder XIII		For decades, African-American Cavalry Regulars were the most effective troops on the western frontier. The became known as the Buffalo Soldiers. The black regiments, which came into being in 1866, quickly won the respect of their opponents. In 1867, fewer than 70 of the raw recruits repulsed an estimated 900 warriors and Mexican bandits. To honor this heritage, the Buffalo Soldiers Motorcycle Club was formed.