21009 - Major General Philip Sheridan; 'Little Phil' [LC-DIG-cwpbh-01009]
General Sheridan was only 30 years old at the start of the war and had only been on active duty since 1853. At the start of the war he was still a Lieutenant, but was soon promoted to Captain. At first assigned to desk jobs, he yearned for battle. In 1862 he got his opportunity and his skill in the field was rewarded with a promotion to Brigadier General.
Following the war, he remained in the Army, eventually reaching four stars. At the age of 57 he died and had asked to be buried at Arlington. This helped to designate the cemetery as a resting place for national heroes, and not just for those who could not afford a private burial.