From West Point to Fort Donelson, General Charles Ferguson Smith was a soldier's soldier. He served at the U.S. Military Academy from 1829 to 1842 as Instructor of Tactics, Adjutant to the Superintendent and Commandant of Cadets. During his 42-year career he was a teacher, mentor and role model for many cadets who became prominent Civil War generals, and he was admired by such former students as Grant, Halleck, Longstreet and Sherman. Smith set an example for junior officers in the Mexican War, leading his light battalion to victories and earning three field promotions. He served with...

Readers who want a better understanding of antebellum military training will appreciate discussions about preparing cadets to become officers. The biographies of the forgotten men who influenced future officers present an account of the commandant's contributions to the Academy, notable graduates, and other military service.