Forrest : Memphis' first White Civil Rights Advocate

. . . . .Though they had many chances to leave, they chose to remain loyal to the South and to Forrest. Part of General Forrest's command included his own Escort Company, his Green Berets, made up of the very best soldiers available. This unit, which varied in size from 40-90 men, was the elite of the cavalry. Eight of these picked men were black soldiers and all served gallantly and bravely throughout the war. All were armed with at least 2 pistols and a rifle. Most also carried two additional pistols in saddle holsters. At war's end, when Forrest's cavalry surrendered in May 1865, there were 65 black troopers on the muster roll. Of the soldiers who served under him, Forrest said of the black troops: Finer Confederates never fought. . . . .

Forrest's speech to the Independent Order of Pole-Bearers Association July 5, 1875.

See: http://www.tennessee-scv.org/ForrestHistSociety/forrest_speech.html