About Us

El Paso Buffalo Soldiers and Troopers M/C

ABOUT US

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The history of the National Association Of Buffalo Soldiers Motorcycle Clubs (NABSTMC) began with a dream; in this case, the dream of Ken 'Dream Maker' Thomas. Believing that it was time to establish a modern progressive motorcycle club whose focus was to promote a positive image among Blacks that would be respected in the community and throughout the country, Thomas founded the Buffalo Soldiers Motorcycle Club of Chicago in October 1993.

The name Buffalo Soldiers was initially selected to pay homage to and ensure the legacy of African American military contributions in the post Civil War era. Under the leadership of Ken Thomas, the new club was chartered as the Buffalo Troopers Motorcycle Club of Chicago. Membership in the club grew to a total of ninety-two (92) during that first year, making it the largest Black motorcycle club in Chicago, IL. The clubhouse was located at 8510 South Ashland Avenue. The clubhouse displayed many items dedicated to the history and memory of the Buffalo Soldiers such as pictures, books, statues, and an authentic buffalo head donated by member Ernie Daurham. In 1996, the club moved from this location to its current location at 13836 South Indiana Avenue, in Riverdale, Illinois. The club's popularity grew as members attended the national roundups and rallies held in various cities in the country. This popularity transformed into interest of other clubs in affiliation with the Buffalo Troopers M/C of Chicago, Illinois.

Then, Brian Bulow, a former President of the Maryland Chapter, and now Vice President of the NABSTMC saw the Chicago Buffalo Troopers at the Atlanta Roundup and displayed an interest in starting a chapter. That interest resulted in the first chapter to wear the “patch” outside of Chicago, Illinois. Soon afterwards, others showed an interest and started chapters, the next four being Florida, Delaware, Virginia and New Jersey. In 1999, the clubs collectively formed the NABSTMC which currently consists of seventy-three member chapters throughout the United States and internationally with additional clubs petitioning for membership. All the chapters of the association determine whether they want to be recognized as “Buffalo Soldiers or Troopers”. However, all the member clubs wear the patch designed by the Chicago, Illinois chapter and subscribe to the NABSTMC rules, regulations, and by-laws.

The NABSTMC is now an active participant in numerous charitable functions including supporting senior citizen homes, student scholarships and food and fund drives for charitable organizations, i.e. The March of Dimes and Toys for Tots. The NABSTMC has also taken the responsibility of mentors to area youth and educational programs, which share enlightenment of the heritage that African Americans have played in the United States. We are also actively involved in recognizing the accomplishments and sacrifices of the Tuskegee Airmen. NABSTMC encourage a positive image and behavior of our members and affiliates. We believe that we are role models and share a responsibility and a positive value system to our respective communities. The member chapters do not discriminate against race, religion, gender or ethnic origin. We are an organization majority comprised of minority members and accept those who share our values and support our cause.

My name is Thomas “TC” Costley. Most people just call me “TC.” I am 65 years young and currently the President of the National Association of Buffalo Soldiers & Troopers Motorcycle Clubs (NABSTMC). As National President, my goal is to continue to keep the NABSTMC in the fore-front of the fight to change the negative image of biking in general, and black biking in particular. I ask that you all help to make this goal a reality.

Retrace 2004…31 July

In 2004, the National organization staged a historic ride to the Buffalo Soldiers Monument at Fort Leavenworth, Kansas.

This event involved the participation of nearly 500 members from all over the United States.

Leaving from various destinations, all came together at Fort Leavenworth to retrace the steps of the original 9^th and 10^th Cavalry Buffalo Soldiers of the late 1800’s.

At 11:30 am, a motorcade of over 400 bikes, with members dressed in black and gold, slowly began moving in military precision from the Kansas City International Expo Center to Fort Leavenworth.

The Organization created this event to honor and perpetuate the history of those brave troopers who fought so gallantly on the Great Plains during the Indian Wars.

Aside from paying tribute to the Legendary Buffalo Soldiers, members wanted to affect a resurgence of pride to carry back to their respective communities.

For most, it was the first time they were able to see, touch and experience the part of history they talked about in countless seminars across the country.

The Memorial Ceremony, held at the Monument, was open to all military and DOD personnel stationed at Fort Leavenworth.

A solemn wreath-laying ceremony was performed by a contingent of color guards clothed in replica Buffalo Soldier uniforms and NABSTMC officers…

“There is no greater honor than to be asked to conduct this type of ceremony for a veteran,” said Thomas.

The ceremony had a very special ending as the ashes of Master Sergeant Robert E. Phillips were buried in the earth at the site of the Buffalo Soldier Monument.

Thomas ‘TC’ Costley, spokesperson and organizer of the event, thanked the Phillips’ family for the privilege and pledged that the club would proudly execute the ceremony with ‘all of the honor and dignity it deserves.’

A flag was placed at the site by a member of each NABSTMC Chapter represented…

Following the ceremony, members visited the Richard Allen Cultural Center Museum in the town of Leavenworth, Kansas.

Later that evening, POW’s and MIA’s were honored in a moving program.

This was a historic event that those who participated will always remember.