Homeland Security: Frontier Army 1848-1860
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This plan was developed with an eye towards economy, as mounted troops were more expensive to equip, train and maintain than were infantry. By keeping the mounted troops closer to settlements, forage costs would be reduced, as it would not be necessary haul corn and hay to the otherwise isolated posts along the frontier.

Motivation and Manpower - Throughout the first half of the 19th century, the United States Army accepted, "All free white male persons, above the age of 18, and under 35 years, being at least 5 feet 5 inches high, who are effective, able-bodied citizens of the United States native or naturalized, sober, free from disease, and who speak and understand the English language” to serve in the ranks. Despite these strict limitations, recruiters often disregarded age and physical standards with regularity, as many Americans preferred to serve in more egalitarian volunteer units and refused to serve in the ranks of the regular army. Recruiting regulars in peacetime was always difficult. In the aftermath of the Mexican War, the army continued to draw upon its traditional sources -- the destitute, the disoriented, and the naïve. Many recruits turned to military service as a last resort. During the 1850s, twice as many foreign immigrants enlisted as did native Americans. Most immigrants were recent arrivals who had not yet adjusted to American life. Of these, approximately 50% were from Ireland, and 20% from Germany. By and large, immigrants made good soldiers, and took advantage of their military service to move westward and earn a nest egg. Fewer of them deserted or were dishonorably discharged than soldiers born in the United States. Iin many cases, desertion emptied the ranks almost as fast as recruiting officers filled them.