George Custer and an Example of Cavalry Screening Duty
One might argue that George Custer earned his brigadier’s star during the Loudoun Valley fighting, between June 17 and 21, 1863. Putting a finer point to the argument, one could say he earned the promotion on June 21, at Upperville. General Pleasonton recommended Custer for his actions at Aldie and Upperville, which would suggest the…