he graduated from the u. s. military academy in 1854, was assigned to the 2nd artillery, and stationed at newport, rhode island. in september 1854 he was made 2nd lieutenant and sent to tampa, florida, where he served in the indian troubles for two years. he was compelled, in consequence of a severe fever, to return home on sick leave, but in the beginning of 1856 resumed his duties, acting part of the time as quartermaster and commissary until december 1856, when he was appointed acting assistant professor of geography, history, and ethics in the u.s. military academy, where he remained until september 24, 1860. he was promoted to 1st lieutenant on march 3, 1857.