David Moniac, born December 1802 in present-day Alabama, was the first Native American to graduate the US Military Academy at West Point, NY in 1822. He was related to major Creek leaders on both sides of his family, and had some Scottish ancestry as well.
After he graduated, he resigned his commission to manage his family's property in Alabama. During the Second Seminole War in 1863, he was recalled into service twice. He first served with the Alabama militia to suppress an uprising of displaced Creek.
In August of that year, Moniac was commissioned as captain of the Creek Mounted Volunteer Regiment, a volunteer unit of Creek warriors led by white officers. He was promoted to major in November. During the Battle of Wahoo Swamp, he and his unit were to find and destroy a Seminole camp. Deep water separated the camp from Moniac's force. He ran into the water to encourage his men to follow, but was shot dead by the Seminoles.
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