Why We Exist
In July 2009, the 1st Battalion, 17th Infantry Regiment known as the “Buffalos” deployed to southern Afghanistan as part of Operation Enduring Freedom. Facing intense combat, the unit would go on to suffer 23 killed in action and many wounded.
Out of this sacrifice, the 1-17 Infantry Memorial Fund was born: a promise to carry their spirit forward. We link generations honouring those who served, and empowering young people to serve their communities.
Reconnect with fellow veterans, friends, and family.
Any opportunity to engage or re-engage with the people from shared experience is valuable.
We aren't alone.
Our Impact in Numbers
1 Fund established for the 600-soldier task force deployed in 2009.
23 + Soldiers killed in action from the 2009-10 deployment.
Annual grants awarded to graduating high-school students in the name of fallen Buffalos.
23 high-schools eligible across the country.
Our Mission
To honor the memory of the fallen members of the 1-17 Infantry Regiment by empowering youth through educational support, community leadership, and acts of service that reflect the values of courage, loyalty, and integrity.
Our Vision
A world where every generation remembers the cost of freedom and every young leader is inspired to serve their community with the same bravery and selflessness shown by the Buffalos.
What We Do
Honouring the Brave
We remember their service, their sacrifice, their stories. From the orchards of Afghanistan to the communities they called home, we preserve their legacy.
Empowering the Rising Generation
We invest in youth awarding annual grants to high-school seniors who show leadership, community commitment and service-minded ambition. We link their future to the legacy of the Buffalos.
The Map
Our effort extends far and wide across the country. Together, we can honour the service of the herd through inspiring service-minded individuals in nearly every corner of the United States.