The state's first wartime experience was in the aftermath of the events in Cuba and the nation's declaration of war against Spain in 1898. In a fascinating series of twists and turns, over fourteen hundred South Dakota men enlist to serve, are sent to the Philippines, and participate in what many have said is the United States' first war for empire. Governor Andrew Lee and the regiment's commander, Colonel Alfred S. Frost, overcome hurdle after hurdle; nevertheless, the soldiers of the 1st South Dakota acquit themselves well in this little-known aspect of this undeservedly little-known war.