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In the late summer and fall of 1868, bands of hostile Apache Indians were marauding through the Arizona Territory, killing settlers and stealing livestock. Two Troops of the 8th Cavalry, a force of no more than 50-60 soldiers, were tasked with responding to secure settlements and keep the territory open for habitation. From August to October, Troops B and L were constantly in the saddle as they patrolled the territory. Though there were no major engagements, these troops were frequently attacked from ambush or sniped at from hidden ravines, and the 90-day period was one of intense danger and dedicated around-the-clock security for the Arizona Territory. At the end of the campaign, 34 of the men of these two troops (including 4 from Company L, 29 from Company B and one other trooper from the 8th Cavalry) were awarded Medals of Honor. The Medals were presented the following summer on July 24, 1869 in one of the largest Medal of Honor presentations to that date. Among the awardees was Private Lewis Phife, who was cited for "Bravery in scouts and actions against Indians".
Lewis Phife left his hometown of Burlington, IA at the age of 19 to move westward. During the Civil War he enlisted for service in the west, then continued his military service as a member of the US Cavalry during the Indian Campaigns.
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