Embury D. Osband (June 6, 1832 – October 4, 1866) became the commanding officer of the 3rd United States Colored Cavalry Regiment during the American Civil War.

Born in New York, he became a teacher and then started a company that provided books to schools.

When the American Civil War broke out, he raised a company of the 4th Illinois Cavalry Regiment and became its captain.

He led the regiment and later a cavalry brigade in Grierson's 1864–65 Raid.

He received the brevet rank of brigadier general for war service.