Why is the words Unhonored Service used in the title... @Joshism , why?
I'm not the author and I haven't read the book so why are you specifically asking me?
Munford was commissioned a LtCol in May 1861. He was promoted to Col on Oct 1861. He first held a brigade command in mid-1862, after Ashby's death.
He wasn't nominated/appointed Brigadier General until Nov 1864, and the Confederate Congress didn't confirm him during the following five months before Richmond fell. Thus Munford technically ended the war as a Colonel.
That star was important to a lot of people. Perhaps Munford specifically expressed disappointment postwar for never receiving it?
Based on the linked review, the author certainly thinks it shouldn't have taken Munford three years to get nominated for that star. The thesis that he was denied it based on interpersonal conflict and bias against him for not being a professional soldier seems plausible.
Recall that Wade Hampton, who some would argue was the best Confederate cavalry officer of the entire war and who is universally lauded for his command of the ANV's cavalry corps, was held back because he had no prewar military experience, and despite him being one of Stuart's favorite subordinates.
cwba.blogspot.com
