Haecker, a military archaeology specialist, said the Buffalo Soldiers served on the Western frontier. The 9th and 10th Cavalry regiments served in the Guadalupe Mountains and surrounding area.
The soldiers built forts and roads, protected railroad crews, escorted stages and trains and protected settlers. In the Guadalupe Mountains, the soldiers often clashed with the Apaches and tried to keep them out of the area by guarding Pine Springs, which was their main source of water.
They also had adversaries such as Sitting Bull, Victorio and Geronimo.
Although they were often given some of the worst assignments by the Army, the Buffalo Soldiers persevered, and the 9th and 10th Cavalries developed into two of the most distinguished fighting units in the army, Haecker said.
John Lujan, park superintendent, said preparations for the archaeology research were extensive and Haecker had worked hard to make sure all of the necessary permits and paperwork were in order.
``We feel this program initiated by the National Park Service is important because it encourages a discussion between the African-American and Native American students about the relationship between the Buffalo Soldiers and the Apaches,'' King said. ``Once the two were enemies. But today, out here, they are working side by side.''
— Associated Press
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