Merch Bradt Stewart

Merch Bradt Stewart (June 24, 1875 – July 3, 1934), often called M. B. Stewart was a writer, educator, and career United States Army officer who became superintendent of the United States Military Academy. Stewart authored several U.S. Army manuals, penned a popular narrative of his considerable experiences as second lieutenant in the Spanish–American War, and in the years preceding World War I wrote essays informing the public on issues of physical and military education.

Early life Merch Stewart was born in Mitchells, Virginia, June 24, 1875. Appointed from New York to the United States Military Academy (USMA), he graduated in the bottom half of his cadet class of 1896. Among his classmates at the academy there were several men who would, like Stewart himself, eventually attain the rank of general officer, such as Edward L. King, Lucious R. Holbrook, Dennis E. Nolan, Frank C. Bolles, LeRoy Eltinge and George H. Shelton.

Military career After brief assignment to the 11th Infantry, Stewart was transferred to the 8th Infantry Regiment, served three years on the Platte River and was detailed to topographic service before the outbreak of the Spanish–American War. Promoted to captain in the 8th Infantry regiment, Stewart accompanied the regiment to stations at Fort Lawton, Washington and Governor's Island, New York, then spent a three-year tour teaching infantry tactics at the academy before returning to the Philippines with his regiment and then serving with the regiment at the Rock Island Arsenal.

After the war, Stewart returned to the permanent rank of major and commanded an Overseas Replacement Depot at Fort Meade, Maryland, served again at Fort Leavenworth and on the Army General Staff, and received promotions to permanent lieutenant colonel and colonel. In 1923 Stewart was assigned as Commandant of Cadets at West Point. He served until retiring in 1927, and received promotion to permanent brigadier general in 1925, and major general at his retirement.

Awards He received the Army Distinguished Service Medal, French Croix de Guerre, and French Legion of Honor.

Personal life Stewart married Nan Wheelihan of Wisconsin on February 16, 1898. They had one son: Peter.

Death and legacy Stewart died in St. Augustine, Florida, on July 3, 1934, and was buried at West Point Cemetery.

The , launched October 1944, was named in his honor.

Works