WWII Buffalo Soldier Essay Contest

The Annual WWII Buffalo Soldier Essay Contest

Established in honor of east Augusta resident SSgt. Derry Hanton, the purpose of the annual 4th-grade essay contest is to sustain this local U.S. Army veteran and WWII Buffalo Soldier's meaningful connection to W.S. Hornsby Elementary School.

Before his death on May 8, 2016, the 90-year-old SSgt. Hanton visited the elementary school's classes annually to share government and World War II history of the 92nd Infantry Division; this section of the, then segregated U.S. Army, was comprised only of the black enlisted men and white officers. The soldiers were named "Buffalo Soldiers" after the more than 200 African Americans who previously fought in the Civil War. This annual essay contest preserves the local connection to our national history and is the family's way of sustaining SSgt. Hanton's commitment to the school posthumously. Most importantly, the contest fosters an understanding of the substantial African American involvement in this country's military victories despite a segregated past.   

In a 1-page essay, 4th-grade student entrants will respond to the following questions. The winner will receive a $150 prize and award.

Q1: What is the WWII 92nd Infantry Division, also known as "the Buffalo Soldiers"?

Q2: What are the most important lessons that we can learn from the 92nd Infantry Division, or the heroes called the "Buffalo Soldiers"?