Resolution Honors the 25th Army Corps, Highlighting Their Role in Liberating Texas Before Juneteenth

This resolution is a formal, non-binding acknowledgment from Congress that honors the history and service of the 25th Army Corps during the Civil War. Essentially, it’s Congress taking a moment to officially recognize a group of soldiers whose story is incredibly important but often overlooked in the mainstream narrative.

The bill specifically highlights that the 25th Army Corps was the largest group of African American soldiers in the Union Army, composed of over 1,000 men. These soldiers were not just fighting for the Union; they were fighting against prejudice and slavery, making their service uniquely impactful. For anyone interested in American history or military service, this resolution is about making sure their sacrifices are officially recorded and celebrated.

The First Through the Gates

One key action the resolution points out is the Corps’ role in the capture of Richmond, Virginia, the former capital of the Confederacy. The text specifies that the 25th Army Corps was the first unit to take over Richmond back on April 3, 1864. This detail isn’t just historical trivia; it underscores the critical and often front-line role these troops played in securing major Union victories, challenging the narrative that these units were relegated to secondary duties.

Rewriting the Timeline of Freedom in Texas

Perhaps the most significant detail for everyday people—especially those who celebrate Juneteenth—is the resolution’s focus on Texas. The text explicitly recognizes the Corps' actions in Galveston, Texas, where they captured the city on June 5, 1865. This date is critical because it was a full two weeks before General Gordon Granger arrived on June 19th (the date commonly celebrated as Juneteenth) to formally announce the end of slavery.

The resolution asserts that the soldiers of the 25th Army Corps, many of whom were formerly enslaved themselves, actively chased the Confederate government into Mexico and spread the word of freedom, liberating thousands of enslaved people in Texas before the official word arrived. For those who value historical accuracy and understanding the true timeline of emancipation, this resolution offers a powerful, official correction, emphasizing that the fight for freedom was often won on the ground by those directly affected, rather than solely by official decree.

An Enduring Legacy of Courage

Ultimately, this resolution wraps up by affirming that the actions of the 25th Army Corps were vital to the Union victory and the fight against slavery. It’s a statement that their legacy—built on courage, justice, and fighting both an external enemy and internal prejudice—continues to inspire today. Because this is a commemorative resolution and not a piece of legislation that changes laws or allocates funds, its impact is purely focused on historical recognition and ensuring that a pivotal group of soldiers receives the official thanks and acknowledgment they deserve.