GIANTS OF TEXAS HISTORY: Thomas Jefferson Rusk Thomas Jefferson Rusk was secretary of war of the Republic of Texas and played a key role at San Jacinto and in the subsequent defense of Texas in the uncertain years following independence. He later served as chief justice of the Supreme Court of the Republic, and, along with Sam Houston, went to the U.S. Senate after Texas became a state. Rusk soon became involved in the independence movement, organizing volunteers from Nacogdoches and joining the army at Gonzales. He left the army before the siege of Bexar. He became inspector general of the army in the Nacogdoches District on December 14, 1835, serving in that post until February 26, 1836. Following news of the Fannin massacre, Burnet sent Rusk with orders for Gen. Sam Houston to make a stand against the enemy. Once he joined the army on their retreat to the east, Rusk became an ally and supporter of General Houston. The army marched to Buffalo Bayou to intercept Santa Anna's army, fresh from its attack on Harrisburg. He participated bravely in the Battle of San Jacinto, then from May 4 to October 31, 1836, he served as commander in chief of the Army of the Republic of Texas, with the rank of brigadier general. In that capacity, he conducted a military funeral for the men killed at Goliad. To Read More, Click Button Below Ultimate Flags Inc. 10185 NE 22 St. Okeechobee, FL 34974