ebooks West Coast Support Group: Task Group 96.8; Korea 1950-1953 by M. P. Cocker in History

Description

Howard Bass Cushing's short life was a kaleidoscope of experiences and adventures. His military career began with the First Illinois Light Artillery as a private during the Civil War; and he later rose to the rank of Lieutenant in the Regular Army. He died in 1871 in an Apache ambush while leading a special scout to locate and punish marauding Apaches in southeastern Arizona Territory. A checkered military career reflected his personality. During the Civil War; he rose rapidly and proved capable of commanding an artillery battery; yet Cushing faced a court martial as the result of a drunken escapade. To escape the stigma attached to this incident; he requested; and was finally granted; a transfer to the third Cavalry in the New Mexico and Arizona Territories. As troop commander; Cushing led numerous expeditions against renegade Apaches in both Territories. He was respected by his men and his bravery and leadership qualities were never questioned by those he led. Howard Bass Cushing is one of the unsung heroes of Arizona Territory.