Thomas Cruse

Thomas Cruse was a brigadier general in the United States Army who served with distinction during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. An 1879 graduate of the United States Military Academy at West Point, Cruse spent his early career serving in numerous campaigns on the Western Frontier, where he gained valuable combat experience during the American Indian Wars.

He was awarded the Medal of Honor for his conspicuous gallantry on July 17, 1882, during the Battle of Big Dry Wash in Arizona. His leadership and actions during this engagement on the frontier cemented his reputation as a courageous officer.

Cruse later served in the Philippines, continuing his dedicated service to the nation. He rose through the ranks of the U.S. Army, ultimately retiring in 1918 with the rank of brigadier general, leaving behind a legacy of long and honorable military service.