As we strive to make 2026 the largest-ever year of service, America250 wants to introduce you to individuals working to celebrate and commemorate the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence.
Trooper Nina Amos has been a proud member of the National Association of Buffalo Soldiers for over twenty years and is the first woman elected as its National President in its history. She is also the President of the Denver, CO Chapter.
The National 9th & 10th (Horse) Cavalry Association has recognized and presented her with numerous awards for her contributions and service to the association. In 2014, her chapter successfully hosted the 148th Annual Reunion Conference for the National 9th & 10th (Horse) Cavalry Association. For this reunion, she created the Hall of Honor, an educational display with biographies and photos that recognized and paid tribute to the 29 living “Original Buffalo Soldiers.” She designed the Buffalo Soldier Medal of Honor, which was presented to 17 living “Original Buffalo Soldiers” by their Jr. Troopers. The Hall of Honor has been displayed and seen at two other National Reunions.
Her organization was honored to create a Bronze Memorial Plaque with The State of Colorado to pay tribute to Trooper Cathay Williams, the only known “Female Buffalo Soldier.” This plaque hangs in the Trinidad Colorado State History Museum Memorial Garden in Trinidad, Colorado, the place where she lived and is believed to have died.
She represents and believes that the Buffalo Soldiers have truly given us “A Glorious Past and have Blazed a Brilliant Future” with their “Fierce Fighting Spirits” and the ultimate sacrifice of their lives that we can forever be proud of.
We asked Nina to share why she chooses to give and serve her community.
America Gives Public Service Story: Nina Amos
How many years have you committed to public or military service?
I have been honored to work in public service for 22 years and got my start in July 2002.
What inspired you to serve?
My faith inspired me from an early age to dedicate my life to service and helping others. Growing up, my parents taught me to embrace the values of Christianity that teach us to serve our fellow man. My goal has always been to be a servant and make a positive impact in the lives of my family, my friends, and all I encounter.
What does service mean to you?
For me, service has always meant to be a joyful giver of my time, my talent, and my resources that help or make better the lives and circumstances of those who are in need.
Why do you give back?
Giving back has been one of the guiding principles of my life for as long as I can remember. It’s what I know, and I believe it’s the right way to live. It is the joy of giving yourself, your time, and your talents that make a difference in all our lives.
What is your hope for the next generation when it comes to service and giving?
Young people today have a tremendous opportunity to find fulfillment and meaning through service to others. My hope for the next generation is that they will find ways to serve. The more you give of yourself, the more you get back in life. Life is about so much more than material possessions. It’s about the positive difference you make in the lives of others and living in a way that shows how much you care about others. Serving others is how all Americans can make a better way in our communities and our nation as a whole.
America's Field Trip
Engaging students nationwide to celebrate America’s 250th anniversary!
This contest invites students in grades 3–12 to share their perspectives on what America means to them — and earn the opportunity to travel for field trip experiences at some of the nation’s most iconic historic and cultural landmarks.