The West Point Military Academy unveiled a new monument Friday dedicated to the Buffalo Soldiers.

The 10-foot-tall bronze statue depicts the likeness of Buffalo Soldiers Association of West Point founder and retired Staff Sgt. Sanders H. Matthews Sr.

The famous regiment of African American soldiers served for decades at the military academy starting in 1907 and assumed cavalry duties and instructing cadets in mounted drills and tactics.

The Buffalo Soldiers first became known for their volunteer service during the American Civil War.

At West Point, they provided instruction to notable graduates such as George S. Patton Jr. and Dwight D. Eisenhower.