In 2012, Ivan J. Houston, a World War II Buffalo Soldier, was invited to return to Italy by the owner of a villa his battalion liberated. He and his family would be guests at the 15th century Villa Orsini, now a Bed & Breakfast renamed the Villa La Dogana in Lucca Italy. These photos highlight the emotional return of Mr. Houston to Tuscany nearly 70 years after the end of the war, where the African American Buffalo Soldiers are considered heroes and liberators. The author and his family returned to Italy for 5 consecutive years, visiting the battle sites and celebrating ancient victories that will never be forgotten.

Please enjoy the beauty of Tuscany in the following photos!

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2012

2013

2014

2015

2016