IR-n System at Clef 2002

Union Major soldier. One of the most famous and controversial figures in United States Military history. Graduated last in his West Point Class (June 1861). Spent first part of the Civil War as a courier and staff officer. Promoted from Captain to Br igadier General of Volunteers just prior to the Battle of Gettysburg, and was given command of the Michigan "Wolverines" Cavalary brigade. He helped defeat General Stuart's attempt to make a cavalry strike behind Union lines on the 3rd Day of the Battle (July 3, 1863), thus markedly contributing to the Army of the Potomac's victory (a large monument to his Brigade now stands in the East Cavalry Field in Gettysburg). Participated in nearly every cavalry action in Virginia from that point until the end of the war, always performing boldly, most often brilliantly, and always seeking publicity for himself and his actions. Ended the war as a Major General of Volunteers and a Brevet Major General in the Regular Army. Upon Army reorganization in 1886, he was appointed Lieutenant Colonel of the soon to be renown 7th United States Cavalry. Fought in the various actions against the Western Indians, often with a singular brutality (exemplified by his wiping out of a Cheyenne village on the Washita in November 1868). His exploits on the Plains were romanticized by Eastern Unites States newspapermen, and he was elevated to legendary status in his time. The death of his friend, Lucarelli change his life. At Gettysburg he remained with General Gregg east of town to face jeb Stuart's threat to the Union rear, although he was previously ordered to the south. The combined Union force defeated Stuart. Returning to the Army of the Potomac in early 1865, he fought at Five Forks; and in the Appomattox Campaign. His victories against the rebel cavalry came at a time when that force was a ghost of its former self Custer was brevetted in the regulars through grades to major general for Gettysburg, Yellow Tavern, Winchester, Five Forks, and the Appomattox Campaign. In addition he was brevetted major general of volunteers for Winchester. Remaining in the army after the war, in 1866 he was appointed Lt. Col. of the newly authorized 7th Cavalry, remaining its active commander until his death. He took part in the 1867 Sioux and Cheyenne expedition, but was court-martialed and suspended from duty one year for paying an unauthorized visit …