Four veterans who live in Rockland were celebrated during the Buffalo Soldier awards ceremony at the Rockland County Fire Training Center in Pomona on Tuesday. It marked the county's 25th event.

Alphonso Marshall of Hillcrest said he "did not expect all this."

The Rev. Raymond Caliman, of Spring Valley, said, "it means so much to me."

Bertis Blanks, of Orangeburg, said the honor felt "wonderful."

The name "Buffalo Soldiers" refers to members of African American cavalry regiments who served in the U.S. Army in the western frontier the years following the Civil War.

The Rev. Caliman enlisted in the U.S. Army Active Reserves in 1957. He's been a pastor in Rockland for 25 years.

Marshall was drafted and served two years during the Vietnam War.

Blanks was drafted during World War II and then chose to serve again during the Korean War.

Blanks is honored but also never forgets those Black soldiers who served before him.

"It took many of our soldiers a long time to be recognized and to receive their awards. Many died without ever receiving their awards," said Blanks.

Charlie Maurshardt, a veteran and leader of the veteran group Nam Knights, was also honored with an honorary membership certificate from the Rockland County Buffalo Soldiers for taking care of the Mount Moor Cemetery where many African American Veterans are laid to rest.