MILITARY HISTORY OF THE WEST-TOC - 1997

Volume 27, No. 1, Spring 1997

Table of Contents

"'American Xenophon,' American Hero: Alexander Doniphan's Homecoming from the Mexican-American War as a Hallmark of Patriotic Fervor," pp. 1-31, by Joseph G. Dawson III.

Abstract: Using parades and speeches, Americans have long celebrated the homecoming of military veterans. During and after the Mexican-American War, several cities and states lavished recognition on their returning soldiers. Leading the list of such receptions was one in 1847 held at St. Louis for Alexander Doniphan and his Missouri Volunteers, a remarkable display of nationalism and patriotism.
Key Words: Alexander Doniphan; Mexican-American War; Missouri Volunteers; veterans' celebrations; Xenophon

"The Fort Robinson War Dog Reception and Training Center, 1942-1946," pp. 33-58, by Thomas R. Buecker

Abstract: The creation and implementation of the K-9 Corps, an important and somewhat overlooked aspect of World War II history, provided a valuable adjunct to combat troops and stateside security. The K-9 Corps also gave American citizens another opportunity to contribute to the war effort. The dog training center at Fort Robinson, Nebraska, played a critical role in the success of the program.
Key Words: K-9 Corps; Dogs for Defense; Quartermaster Remount Depot; Fort Robinson, Nebraska; World War II

"'The very best soldiers in the world': Two Surgeons Examine California's Civil War Recruits," pp. 59-82, by Julie A. Doyle and John David Smith.

Abstract: During the Civil War civilian physicians examined U.S. Army recruits, draftees, and substitutes to determine their fitness for military service. Drs. Lorenzo Hubbard and Alexander B. Doniphan examined approximately 1,600 men in California's Northern and Middle Districts, respectively. Reports filed by Hubbard and Nixon following the war provide valuable insights into California's medical and social history, especially the doctors' understanding of the relation between disease and topography, climate, and race.
Key Words: California; examining surgeons; Civil War medicine; Lorenzo Hubbard; Alexander B. Nixon

"Scalping," pp. 83-86, by H. Henrietta Stockel

Abstract: On the American frontier, both Indians and non-Indians followed the practice of taking a scalp trophy from an enemy. Although some victims survived this brutality, most eventually perished from medical complications such as infection and decay of the skull.
Key Words: Scalping; medicine; Indian wars