Signature of Brigadier General William Denison Whipple (1826-1902). This signature probably dates after July 17, 1863, when he was promoted to Brigadier General of Volunteers. Promotions continued, and he eventually won the brevet of Major General, United States Army, for "gallant and meritorious services in the field during the rebellion." This William was a fourth cousin three times removed of General William Whipple who signed the Declaration of Independence