All 12 companies of the 7th Cav and the regimental HQ were in the field under Custer in 1876.

3 companies D, H, and K, were under Benteen.

3 companies, A, G, and M, were under Reno.

5 companies possible organied into 2 battalions, C, E, F, I, and L, were with Custer.

Capt McDougall, with his own Co B, was assigned as commander of the rear guard and escort for the pack train. The pack train itself had a large detail of men assigned from the all companies of the regiment.