During the American Civil War, the Battle of New Market took place in May 1864 in Virginia’s Shenandoah Valley, a strategically important area in the conflict. Union General Franz Sigel aimed to secure the valley to disrupt Confederate supply lines and support Union campaigns in the South. In response to Sigel’s offensive, the Confederate army, led by General John C. Breckinridge, gathered forces to confront the advancing Union troops. Among those forces were approximately 250 cadets from the Virginia Military Institute (VMI), whose involvement was prompted by both a call to arms and a sense of duty to their home state.

The engagement was marked by intense fighting, with VMI cadets participating in direct combat, showcasing their training and standing firmly alongside seasoned soldiers. The Confederate forces successfully pushed the Union troops back, leading to a Confederate victory at the battle. This event is particularly notable for the significant role that young cadets played, with many of them engaged in the thick of battle, showcasing their commitment and bravery despite their youth.

Following the battle, the students' actions were celebrated in the South, and it served as an important morale booster for Confederate supporters. The VMI cadets gained notoriety, and their involvement has become a part of the school's storied history, emblematic of their contributions during the war. The battle also represented the larger struggle within the Shenandoah Valley, a region that saw numerous clashes throughout the Civil War, emphasizing its critical importance in the conflict.