Spring Valley Veteran Kenneth Mercer Receives Buffalo Soldier Award

SPRING VALLEY, N.Y. -- Spring Valley resident Kenneth Mercer, who was a lance corporal in the U.S. Marine Corps, received the 2016 Buffalo Soldier Award from Rockland County Executive Ed Day on Thursday.

Kenneth Mercer left received the 2016 Buffalo Soldier Award.
Photo Credit: *Facebook*

Karin Carrasco

02/05/2016 5:00 a.m.

"Ken Mercer embodies the American spirit and dedication to service, which is clearly evident through his lifelong commitment to family, community, and our armed services," said Day.

The Buffalo Solider Award is presented every year to an African- American veteran.

Buffalo Soldiers was the nickname of the African-American cavalry regiments formed in 1866 in the U.S. Army:

"Awards like this are important because they allow us to recognize those who have served our nation at home and abroad, sacrificing to preserve our way of life," Day said.

Click here to learn more about Buffalo Soldiers and the award to Mercer.

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