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President Roosevelt asks Representative Hull, Chairman of the House Committee on Military Affairs, if anything can be done to help John S. Gibbon.
Library of Congress Manuscript Division
1906-04-07
President Roosevelt has looked into the matter of John S. Gibbon that Martha Macomb Selmes brought to his attention, and is sorry to report that the War Department is strongly against the bill. Roosevelt agrees with the sentiment of some of those on the Committee on Military Affairs that passing special bills for the appointment of single officers would demoralize the army and lead to more ambitious men lobbying for special appointments in the future.
Library of Congress Manuscript Division
1906-04-12
Major Russel, in response to Colonel Gardiner’s request, gives his military history, starting with his entry into the military in 1861, until he was, to his surprise, taken out of service in 1871. He believes this was a result of General John Gibbon’s dislike of him.
Library of Congress Manuscript Division
1907-12-24
Retired General Coolidge sends a letter recommending the reinstatement of Samuel A. Russel. Russel was a great soldier who did not get along well with General John Gibbon. Coolidge is confident in Russel’s ability.
Library of Congress Manuscript Division
1907-06-08
Asa Bird Gardiner introduces the letter bearer, Samuel A. Russel, a Civil War veteran and military career man, to Secretary of War Taft. Gardiner speaks highly of Russel’s reputation and character, and asks that he be restored to his rank and granted military retirement. Gardiner feels that Russel was wrongly discharged from service.
Library of Congress Manuscript Division
1907-05-08