Henderson, Archibald

Henderson, Archibald

(1785–1859) marine officer; born in Virginia. In a long career of mostly peacetime service he was commandant of marines from 1820 until his death, and oversaw important reforms in the corps' organization. Commissioned in 1806, Henderson saw service during the War of 1812. He led marines in combat in the Seminole War in Florida in 1837. Brevetted brigadier general for gallantry in that conflict, he became the first general officer in the corps.