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by David Arthur Ekardt (Author)
Most people do not realize that the U.S.Marines participated in the longest of the Indian wars, The Second Seminole War. After serving for several months in Georgia and Alabama involved in the Second Creek War, Commandant Archibald Henderson led them to Florida. There they served in many capacities from 1836-1842. They were put in charge of Tampa Bay and Fort Brooke for several months, as well as manning other forts; they patroled the interior of the territory, they lead the Creek Indian volunteers, they were detailed as mounted troops, they provided security for the many supply wagon trains and even escorted several groups of Indians to the Arkansas Territory for resettlement. They along with sailors of the West Indies Squadron's 'Mosquito Fleet' of specially constructed canoess, were the first non-natives to cross the Evergaldes from the east coast to the west coast. The Marines as did the soldiers and sailors who particpated in the Florida actions endured many hardships and disease during their service in Florida. They proved to be an excellent versitle force then as they do today.
