House committee backs Buffalo Soldiers Arizona Territory Monument at Wesley Bolin Plaza

The House Committee on Government voted unanimously to recommend HB 2062, which authorizes placement of the Buffalo Soldiers Arizona Territory Monument at Wesley Bolin Plaza.

Staff told the committee the bill would authorize a memorial dedicated to the Buffalo Soldiers in Wesley Bolin Plaza. Commander Fred Bridal and Deputy Commander Michelle London Maryville of the Buffalo Soldiers organization appeared to support the bill, outlined the organization’s history and events, and thanked the committee for hearing the measure.

“...we decided to put a bill in for the first African American monument to be placed at Wesley Bolin Plaza,” Deputy Commander Michelle London Maryville testified, describing the group’s decade-long work to preserve the history.

Several members spoke in favor during discussion, recounting local military ties and Fort Huachuca history. Representative John Gillette, who explained his vote, cited the long history and service of Buffalo Soldiers and said the memorial was overdue. Representative Stephanie Stall Hamilton and others said they were moved by the presence of youth and veterans at the hearing.

Representative Lisa Fink moved the committee recommendation. The clerk called the roll and the chair announced the vote as 7 ayes, 0 nays; the committee passed HB 2062 with a do-pass recommendation.

The bill now moves forward with the committee’s recommendation for further consideration by the full House.