Greetings to our readers from the Chaplain's Desk!

I'm writing to you with a heart full of enthusiasm and appreciation as I reflect on the past nine months serving as the Program Coordinator for the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department's Buffalo Soldiers Heritage and Outreach Program. It's truly a privilege to lead such a passionate and dedicated team, including the exceptional Cpt. Dolifka and Pvt. Mack, whose commitment to our mission is unwavering.

As a Living History Interpreter, I find immense honor in bringing to life the often-untold stories of the Buffalo Soldiers and their profound impact on Texas history. Each presentation, each interaction, is a chance to connect with our past and to ensure these vital narratives are preserved and shared. I'm particularly excited about the opportunities ahead to visit TPWD's state parks and participate in various community events, sharing the unique perspective of the chaplains who served alongside the Buffalo Soldiers in the 1800s U.S. Army. These men provided spiritual guidance, comfort, and support, playing a critical role in the lives of these soldiers. I look forward to sharing their stories and the broader context of the Buffalo Soldiers' experiences with you.

My prayers are with you all, and I eagerly anticipate the chance to connect with you in a state park. “See you on the trail!"

Chaplain C. L. Poitier

The Buffalo Soldier team met in mid April at Buescher State Park for a program staff retreat. Conversations were had and plans were made that will guide the program over the next year.

At this retreat Lt. Dolifka, after nearly 12 years of service to the TPWD Buffalo Soldiers Program, was promoted to the rank of Captain.  This promotion was well deserved as he has served the program with dignity and diligence.

Capt. Dolifka studied history and government at the University of Texas at Austin and turned his love of history and the outdoors into a career. He began this path by being a member of Boy Scout Troop 441, Venturing Crew 10, and later serving in various positions at the Lost Pines Scout Reservation, in Bastrop, TX, from camp counselor to Aquatics Director.  He later worked at McKinney Roughs Nature Park and now is a Captain in the TPWD Buffalo Soldiers Program.

He has a love of the past.  He demonstrated this love by assisting his mother and grandmother with tracing the family genealogy. He is 6^th generation Texan.

As part of the TWPD Buffalo Soldiers Heritage and Outreach Program. Capt. Dolifka has always strived to show audiences how integral the officers and Native American Indian Scouts were to the success of the Buffalo Soldier units, especially in the establishment of the Texas Frontier.