Buffalo Soldier Monument Dedication - Tampa

The day began with a nice and enjoyable motorcycle ride from Davenport to Tampa for an important and historic event. Members from Orlando and some from Central Florida assembled and departed together, beginning the journey with favorable riding conditions.

Upon our arrival in Tampa, we proceeded to the Wyndham Hotel. Although the temperature seemed to be slightly warmer than when we departed from Davenport, the ride was completed without incident. After arriving at the hotel, all participants gathered inside where we received a warm welcome from the SEF Chairman DJ Man. A safety brief was also provided to ensure everyone was aware of the expectations for the day's activities.

Following the welcome and safety brief, we mounted our motorcycles and participated in a short ride from the hotel to the park where the ceremony was scheduled to take place. Upon arrival, we parked our motorcycles, dismounted, and made our way to the designated seating area. We then waited for the official ceremony and unveiling.

While waiting for the ceremony to start, we had the opportunity to meet, interact with, and fellowship with many of the guests and attendees. This provided a great opportunity to speak with members of the community, veterans, dignitaries, and others who had gathered to witness the dedication and unveiling of the monument. The atmosphere was one of respect, and appreciation for the history and legacy of the Buffalo Soldiers.

The formal welcome was provided by Dexter Barge, Assistant County Administrator, and a veteran himself. His remarks welcomed those in attendance and emphasized the significance of the occasion. The program continued with remarks from our National President, Motown, who served as one of the guest speakers.

The keynote speaker, Brigadier General Remo Butler, U.S. Army Retired, provided those in attendance with an informative and meaningful history lesson about the Buffalo Soldiers. His remarks highlighted the sacrifices, accomplishments, and lasting contributions made by Buffalo Soldiers throughout American military history. The history lesson helped place the significance of the day's ceremony into perspective and reminded those present of the courage and commitment demonstrated by the Buffalo Soldiers and the importance of ensuring their stories continue to be told.

Following the conclusion of the speakers and official remarks, attendees made their way to the location of the monument for the unveiling ceremony. The Tampa Chapter had the distinct honor of participating directly in the unveiling by pulling the cover from the monument while the ribbon-cutting took place. This was a proud and memorable moment for the chapter and everyone involved.

The monument was designed to honor Sergeant William H. Thompkins and recognize his extraordinary bravery and heroism during the Spanish-American War. Sergeant Thompkins was awarded the Medal of Honor for his actions on the night of June 30, 1898. The unveiling of this monument serves as a lasting tribute to his courage, sacrifice, and service to the United States.

The event provided an opportunity for those in attendance to come together to honor an important part of American and Buffalo Soldier history. The ride from Davenport to Tampa, the fellowship with other attendees, the presentations by the guest speakers, and the unveiling of the monument made this a memorable event. Most importantly, the ceremony ensured that the bravery and legacy of Sergeant William H. Thompkins will continue to be recognized and remembered by future generations.