The infantry often accompanied survey crews mapping the west. In 1877, Capt. Stanton and forty infantrymen were camped near Deadwood, surveying the country for mapping purposes.
Challenges Faced by Infantry
General Phil Sheridan, familiar with the infantry from the Civil War, realized they weren’t as effective on the western plains. The infantry’s army issue clothing, including boots, was often uncomfortable and caused problems for the soldiers.
Foot powder was used to help keep the soldiers’ feet dry and healthy. There was also rivalry between the different arms of the service, with cavalrymen and infantrymen often joking and ridiculing each other.
Original reporting: Sheridan Media (Sheridan WY) — read the source article.
