Benjamin F. Tucker of Bristol, Vermont, was a 28-year-old veteran of regular army service when he was mustered into the 1st Maine as adjutant in October 1861.
He was commissioned captain of Company B on May 8, 1862, and led it until being appointed to General Gregg's division staff on June 9, 1863 (several of Gregg's staff officers having been captured at Brandy station that day).
Tucker returned to Company B in December and commanded it till being wounded in the left arm at St. Mary's Church on June 24, 1864.
He lost several inches of bone near the shoulder, but his arm was saved.
He was promoted to major on July 11, 1864, and after emerging from the hospital was put in command of the cavalry depot at City Point, serving there from October 1864 till April or May 1865.
He was mustered out with the regiment and was breveted lieutenant colonel and colonel of volunteers "for gallant and meritorious services."
This cdv by Brady is inscribed "Maj. B. F. Tucker, 1st Me Cavy, Comdg Cavy Depot, A of P." The injury to his left arm is evident.