Honoring Rockland County’s Buffalo Soldiers

One of the greatest privileges I have as County Executive is the opportunity to recognize the men and women who have served our nation and continue to strengthen our community through their example.

On February 11th, alongside Susan Branam, Director of the Rockland County Veterans Service Agency, I had the honor of recognizing three outstanding local veterans during a special ceremony at the Rockland County Fire Training Center. 

Austin Hansen, Thomas Edward McBride, Jr., and Douglas Dickerson were presented with the 2026 Buffalo Soldiers Award for their exemplary military service and continued commitment to others. Jacqueline Anderson was an additional Honorary Buffalo Soldier Award recipient for her dedication to the program.

The Buffalo Soldiers were African American cavalry regiments who served our nation following the Civil War, earning a reputation for courage, discipline, and resilience under the most challenging conditions. Today, that legacy lives on through Rockland County veterans who embody those same values. The Buffalo Soldiers Award is presented annually to recognize African American veterans who served our country with honor.

Each of this year’s honorees answered the call to serve without hesitation.

Austin Hansen served four years in the United States Air Force as a mechanic during the Vietnam War. His many awards include National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal with one Bronze Star, Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal, Air Force Good Conduct Medal.

Thomas Edward McBride, Jr. served in the Air Force from 1966 to 1970 with the 61st Military Airlift Command in the Pacific Theater, earning the National Defense Service Medal, the Air Force Good Conduct Medal, and the Small Arms Expert Marksmanship Ribbon. 

Douglas Dickerson was drafted into the United States Army during the Vietnam War and served three years as a Heavy Equipment Specialist before being honorably discharged. His awards include National Defense Service Medal, Good Conduct Medal, and Sharpshooter. 

Jacqueline Anderson is the spouse of the late Grady Anderson, one of the original organizers of the Buffalo Soldiers Award in Rockland County. Since Grady passed away last year, Jacqueline has faithfully continued his legacy, updating and presenting the Buffalo Soldier history, ensuring that this important story continues to be shared with the community.

It takes a special kind of courage to place your own life on hold in service to something greater than yourself. The freedoms we enjoy every day are possible because of individuals like these men, and we owe them a debt of gratitude that can never fully be repaid.

On behalf of Rockland County, I thank our honorees for their bravery, sacrifice, and continued dedication to our community. We are proud to add their names to the distinguished legacy of Rockland County’s Buffalo Soldiers and to ensure their service is remembered and celebrated.