Relatives, others honor Nebraska Buffalo soldier who got military headstone 71 years after death

[Omaha Steve]

Source: Omaha World Herald

By Kelli Rollin

CENTRAL CITY, Neb. — Jimmie Jackson remembers visiting his great-grandfather’s grave as a child. But Monday, he visited the grave with more knowledge and pride for who his great-grandfather was: Nebraska Buffalo Soldier Benjamin Jackson.

It has been 71 years since Benjamin Jackson died, but his grave now has military markings. About 100 people, including more than 10 family members, gathered Monday for a ceremony at Central City Cemetery to honor Jackson and the acquiring of the markings. Full military rites were performed.

Jackson served as a private in Company M of the 9th Calvary Regiment. He was a veteran of the Indian Wars, serving in the Army from 1881 to 1886, according to military documents. Buffalo Soldiers were African-American soldiers serving in the Indian Wars. Legends say the term derives from the soldiers having curly hair, like buffalo, and from their fierceness and willingness to serve.

In the southwest corner of the cemetery, attendees stood near the perimeter of Jackson’s grave with clasped hands in respect for the soldier.

FULL story and more at link.


Benjamin Jackson


ZACH MAYHEW/WORLD-HERALD NEWS SERVICE
Benjamin Jackson's grave was lacking military markings until this headstone was installed 71 years after his death. A ceremony was held Monday at the Central City Cemetery to recognize Jackson.

Read more: http://www.omaha.com/news/military/i-find-it-inspiring-relatives-others-honor-nebraska-buffalo-soldier/article_7dde20b0-2746-11e6-a5a6-a30bf598f192.html

[Bayard]

1. Interesting

Thanks for posting.