This circa 1846 infantryman wears the light blue fatigue jacket prescribed in 1839, and holds a non-commissioned Model 1840 officer’s sword that indicates he ranked as a corporal or sergeant—though he lacks appropriate chevrons. One possible explanation for the lack is that he had just been promoted corporal, and had yet to attach them to his sleeve. Also of note are his regulation buff leather belts with Pattern 1826 eagle shoulder plate and a small oval U.S. waist belt plate.
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