Despite these poor conditions,

          very few buffalo soldiers

               deserted,

       or left,

           the Army.

     Most enlisted for five years

         and served their entire term.

     For their efforts,

           they were paid

                approximately $13 a month,

       plus room and board

        -- much less

                than their white counterparts.

     Twenty-six buffalo soldiers

         have been awarded

           Congressional Medals of Honor.