The 9th Cavalry was formed in New Orleans, Louisiana in August 3, 1866 by orders of Gen Phillip Sheridan, was authorized to raise one regiment of "colored" cavalry. The new recruits came from Louisville, Kentucky. They were ex-Civil War veterans. Enlistment was for 5 years, with recruits receiving 13 dollars a month, plus room, board, and clothing. They later on were named "Buffalo Soldiers", motto: "We Can, We Will"