The West Point Boys - Dixon Stansbury Miles

Dixon Stansbury Miles was born on May 4, 1804 in Maryland . He graduated from the United States Military Academy at West Point in 1824. After graduation he was commissioned a brevet second lieutenant in the 4th U.S. Infantry regiment. He was transferred to the 7th U.S. Infantry, where he served until 1847. He fought on the western frontier battling Indian tribes along the Gila River and the Navajo. Promoted to captain on June 8, 1836. He fought in the Seminole Wars in Florida from 1839 to 1842. At the start of the Mexican War, he received a brevet promotion to major for his 'gallant and distinguished conduct' in the defense of Fort Brown, Texas. He was brevetted to lieutenant colonel for his gallant conduct at Monterrey, Mexico. In 1859 he was given the command of the 2nd U. S. infantry, stationed at Fort Leavenworth, Kansas. When the Civil War began he was called to Washington to command a brigade under Major General Robert Patterson. He was shortly transferred to the army of Brigadier General Irvin McDowell, where he commanded a division of two brigades. At the First Battle of Bull Run, his division was held in reserve. During the battle, he was accused of being drunk. A court of inquiry validated this accusation and after a leave of absence, he was then reassigned to a quieter post.