The American Legion Post 241, Buffalo Soldiers in Joliet were celebrated by Igniting the Fire Prayer Ministry and surrounding churches on May 11, 2024, during the organization’s annual Guarding City Gates Prayer Gathering. 

For the past 6 years Igniting the Fire Prayer Ministry, several area churches and community members unite in prayer at the Will County Courthouse 100 W. Jefferson Street in Joliet for the organization’s annual prayer vigil.  The group prays for the City of Joliet, local governmental leaders, surrounding communities, the State of Illinois, and the world for God’s guidance, protection, economic stability, Love, and peace. 

Each year during the prayer gathering the ministry also celebrates a group or someone from the community for their noted accomplishments, this year they honored the Buffalo Soldiers for their long-standing courage, dedication, and commitment to veterans in the community. “The Buffalo Soldiers are not only a part of the great military history in our community and the United States, but also a proud accomplishment in Black history,” said Ora Holloway, organizer of Igniting the Fire Prayer Ministry. The Buffalo Soldiers were regiments of Black soldiers who served in the U.S. Army from 1866 through the Korean War. 

“This Memorial Day we would like to thank those men and women who lost their lives for our wellbeing and safety. Your life was not in vain, thank you for your commitment and bravery,” Holloway said. 

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