There are a few military units in American history that have become iconic. The Flying Tigers is one that often comes to mind, but probably the most well known are the Rough Riders, led by then Colonel Theodore Roosevelt. This was a volunteer militia unit that existed for a very short time of only a few months (like the Flying Tigers), yet has indelibly imprinted itself into the minds of Americans. While few actually know the details, their charge of San Juan hill in Cuba during the Spanish-American war has become the main event of that conflict that was remembered. It is also the event that provided the only US president with the nation's highest award, the Medal of Honor.

This is pretty much the story of the 1st US Volunteer Cavalry, a unit that drew its members mostly from the SouthWest US and while it trained as a cavalry unit, it ended up fighting as infantry. It did so in Cuba, which at the time was not a friendly place in terms of military engagements. The biggest enemy was not the Spanish, but disease. This was true in the Florida staging areas as much as on campaign as easily 90% of the casualties with the Rough Riders was not enemy inflicted.

This book adds to the growing 'Warrior' Series by looking at the background that led to the use of such units, how the soldiers were enlisted into them, the training they were given, how they led their daily lives, how they looked and the equipment they used and what it was like to be on campaign.

A goodly portion of the book deals with the various engagements during the short life of Roosevelt's Rough Riders. It also takes a brief look at the other US Volunteer Cavalry units that were formed, but never saw action. The author does a superlative job of telling the story of these men and the life they led while on campaign. It also covers the aftermath of the action and what happened to the unit once the battles were over.

Overall a book that covers an important part of American history and one that I'm sure you will enjoy reading.

July 2009

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