'Stonewall Jackson on Little Sorrel,' a painting by Civil War artist Mort Kunstler, depicts the general riding what became the Confederacy's second most-famous horse (after Gen. Robert E. Lee's mount, Traveller). With his remarkable endurance, Little Sorrel quickly became Jackson's favorite. The commander was riding the 15-hand mount when he was mortally wounded at Chancellorsville. MORT KUNSTLER

In military histories, the contributions of the horses are often overlooked, although these mounts carried their commanders into battle with the same bravery as the humans around them. By Michael Aubrecht

Date published: 9/9/2006

THROUGHOUT the course of military history, generals always have relied on the faithful obedience and service of their troops. The fulfillment of one's duty is the prime directive of every disciplined soldier, and executing orders under fire is crucial in achieving victory on the battlefield. Members of the armed forces are often called upon to follow their commanders blindly into desperate and dangerous situations without question--and without hesitation. Thus is the nature of man in war.

Another loyal servant to the high command, whose contributions are overlooked, is the horse. Completely unaware of the politics, protocol and hypocrisy of war, this animal is more than just a mount. It is a faithful friend and follower who carries its commander into battle with the same bravery and patriotism as the humans around it.

Many of the generals whom we study today enjoyed the companionship of one of these steeds. And in many cases, the horse's name has become almost as famous as its owner's. This was especially true during the Civil War. In the Confederate army, Robert E. Lee's horse Traveller quickly became a Southern icon. In the Union army, it was Philip Sheridan's mount Winchester who captured the hearts and minds of the North.

Another horse that ultimately became as beloved as its rider was Thomas "Stonewall" Jackson's mount, Little Sorrel. No other horse, it seems, has been honored with such grace and dignity as this undersized steed. Like his commander, the story of Little Sorrel is one of both triumph and tragedy.

In 1861, Col. Thomas J. Jackson was deployed to the most northern point of the Confederate states, at Harper's Ferry. His orders were to take command of troops from the Valley District who were stationed there and secure the U.S. armory and arsenal. During this time, Jackson focused on training his army, as well as the logistics required to supply and maintain it. Acquiring the horses essential for mobilization required his immediate attention.

Date published: 9/9/2006