Rockland County Executive Ed Day and Director Susan Branam of the Rockland County Veterans Service Agency recognized four distinguished veterans for their service during a ceremony at the Rockland County Fire Training Center on Tuesday, February 11, 2025. The event honored the dedication and sacrifice of these individuals who have served both their country and their local communities.
The 2025 Buffalo Soldiers Award was presented to Army veterans Rev. Raymond Caliman and Alphonso Marshall, while Bertis Blanks received the 2025 Lifetime Achievement Buffalo Soldier Award. In addition, Vietnam veteran Charlie Maushardt was honored with an Honorary Membership Certificate for his continued leadership and contributions to veterans’ organizations.
“It takes a certain kind of person to place their own life on hold to put their country first, and all of our awardees did it without hesitation,” said Day. “The freedoms we enjoy today would not be possible without the individuals who make the brave choice to serve our nation, including these local heroes.”
The Buffalo Soldiers Award is named after the African American cavalry regiments of the U.S. Army who served between 1867 and 1896 in the western United States. Known for their courage and discipline, the Buffalo Soldiers played a vital role in American military history. Rockland County presents this annual award to outstanding African American veterans who reside in the county.
Branam expressed pride in the event’s honorees, noting that this year’s ceremony recognized veterans who served from World War II through the Vietnam War. “These veterans have so much to share with us about their experiences. We are proud to honor them not only for their military service but for their continued service in their local communities,” she said.
Honorees:
Rev. Raymond Caliman enlisted in the U.S. Army Active Reserves in 1957, serving at Fort Dix and achieving the rank of Private First Class. His dedication to service continued beyond the military as he became a faith leader, serving as the pastor of Fairmont Baptist Church for 25 years.
Alphonso Marshall was drafted into the U.S. Army in 1968, serving for two years during the Vietnam War in communications. He remains actively involved in veterans’ affairs as the Second Vice Commander of American Legion Post 199 in Spring Valley.
The Lifetime Achievement Buffalo Soldier Award was presented to Bertis Blanks, who was drafted into the U.S. Army in 1944, serving for seven years during both World War II and the Korean War. His service took him across France, Japan, and Korea, earning him several honors, including a Combat Infantry Badge, an Army Commendation Medal, and a European-African-Middle Eastern Campaign Medal.
Charlie Maushardt, a Vietnam combat veteran and Blauvelt resident, was honored with an Honorary Membership Certificate from the Rockland County Buffalo Soldiers. His dedication to veterans’ organizations includes serving as President of the Hudson Valley Nam Knights, former President and current member of Vietnam Veterans Association (VVA 333), Senior Vice Commander of VFW 1615, and a member of the Tappan American Legion Post.
“We thank these individuals for their bravery and continued commitment to our residents,” said Day. “We are proud to list their names among the proud African American men and women who have been named to the Rockland County Buffalo Soldiers in years past.”
The ceremony served as a moment of gratitude and recognition for the sacrifices made by these veterans, ensuring their legacies continue to inspire future generations.
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