About the Author
Watson B. Smith, of Detroit, Michigan, enlisted as a Commissary Sergeant in the 8th Michigan Cavalry Company C on August 27, 1862. He was mustered into service that same day at the age of 24. Smith received several promotions including: 1st Lieutenant, November 6; Acting Adjutant General on General William P. Sanders staff, October 29, 1863; Captain of Company K, April 15, 1864; Major, November 14; Lieutenant Colonel by Brevet, March 13, 1865; and, Colonel by Brevet, September 22. On August 2, he was listed as a prisoner of war at Stoneman’s Raid. Watson B. Smith was discharged from service on October 6 at Detroit, Michigan.Documents for this Author: