 Historical documents show that they were also called “colored regulars” to identify them as more than auxiliary troops

Historian Anthony L. Powell explains from first-hand account that joining the Army was a significant opportunity for young African American men; it offered economic security, purpose and an education.He points out that the post-civil war economy left large numbers of African Americans unemployed and homeless.Enlisted 1866

In October 1866 Williams joined the newly formed 9th Cavalry regiment in New Orleans,  Louisiana.