John H. Padgett, Sr.
       May 3, 1925 – January 31, 2005

 John Henry Padgett, Sr. was born in Tampa, Florida in May 1925. After gaining permission from his mother, Padgett entered military service

in 1940 at age fifteen. Trooper Pagett’s first assignment was with the 10th U. S. Cavalry Regiment; following specialized disciplines in several programs,

he was assigned to the following units: 3495th TC Truck Company-Fort Frances E. Warren, Wyoming. The 349th Aviation Company, t

he 26th Aviation Battalion and the 1387th Communication Group at Fort Dix, New Jersey. The 6th Infantry Division Company C 3rd Medical Battalion

and the 7th Infantry Division Company A 7th Medical Battalion, American Land Forces Lebanon. Trooper Padgett served in World War II,

Korea and Vietnam, 30 years of service. John attended Don Thompson Vocational School, receiving certificates in carpentry, masonry and

blueprinting. In 1949, John met and married Lyre E. Holmes, to that union, eight children were born; he retired into the ministry in 1970.

Trooper Padgett became active in veteran’s affairs; he was a member and past Chaplain of the Veterans Council of Hillsborough County, Inc.

In June 1988, Padgett along with Israel Tillman and Charles Vann came together to form a Buffalo Soldier chapter in Tampa, Florida.

The trio submitted a chapter application to the 9th and 110th (Horse) Cavalry Association, and was awarded its chapter status

at the Buffalo Soldiers Anniversary Reunion-United States Military Academy, West Point, New York.