Early Life
Russell was born in Salem, New York, the son of David Abel Russell who was a member of the House of Representatives from 1835 to 1841. The senior Russell secured an appointment to the United States Military Academy for his son during his final year in Congress. The junior Russell graduated near the bottom of his class in 1845. His first assignment was with the U.S. 1st Infantry Regiment.
He transferred to the U.S. 4th Infantry Regiment where he served in Mexico. He was brevetted for gallantry and meritorious service at the Battle of Paso Ovejas and the Battle of Cerro Gordo. He was promoted to first lieutenant in 1848.
After the war, the 4th Infantry was sent to the Pacific Northwest. Russell fought in the Rogue River War and the Yakima War. He was promoted to captain in 1854.
Read more about this topic: David Allen Russell
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