Franklin entered the U.S. Military Academy at West Point in 1877 and graduated in 1881 as a Second Lieutenant in the 3rd Cavalry Regiment. His early career took him to the American West, where he fought at the Battle of Big Dry Wash in Arizona Territory in 1882—an engagement with Apache forces that became one of the last major battles of the Apache Wars.

Throughout his frontier service, Franklin also led Native American scouts and served as Regimental Quartermaster, responsible for managing critical supplies in remote and rugged outposts. His ability to adapt to different environments and duties made him a respected officer within the ranks.

By the late 1890s, Franklin served in Cuba during the Spanish-American War, earning a Silver Star for gallantry at the Battle of Santiago. His service didn’t stop there. In the early 1900s, he was stationed in the Philippines during the Philippine-American War, helping to quell resistance after the U.S. annexed the islands from Spain.

During World War I, Franklin was stationed in Columbus, Ohio, managing training and supply operations vital to the war effort. After four decades in uniform, he retired in 1922 as a Colonel. He and his wife eventually settled in Washington, D.C., but spent much of their retirement traveling across Europe. He was known to have a sharp mind and a keen interest in international affairs, which he nurtured during his post-military travels. Franklin died in 1935 at Walter Reed Hospital and was laid to rest with military honors in Arlington National Cemetery.

Like his older brother, Arthur attended West Point and graduated in 1886. Among his classmates was none other than John J. Pershing, who would later command the American Expeditionary Forces in World War I. Arthur’s career was distinguished in its own right.

Arthur saw early combat during the Indian Wars in the Southwest and later led troops in Cuba during the Spanish-American War. He served again in the Philippines and took on key leadership roles during World War I, including as commanding general of the intermediate services of supplies in France. This critical role ensured American troops remained fed, armed, and equipped far from home.

He was known for his logistical expertise and attention to detail, skills that were vital to maintaining momentum on the front lines. Arthur’s peers and subordinates described him as steady, capable, and deeply committed to the well-being of the soldiers under his command. In addition to his wartime service, he held posts across the United States, helping train and prepare future officers for the changing nature of modern warfare.

Over the years, Arthur also studied at the Army School of the Line and the Army War College, institutions that helped shape the strategic leaders of the 20th century. His dedication earned him multiple honors, including the Distinguished Service Medal, the Silver Star, and the French Legion of Honor.

After retiring in 1925 as a Brigadier General, Arthur settled in Wilmette, Illinois. He passed away in 1946 and was also buried at Arlington National Cemetery. He left behind his wife, Edith, and four children—several of whom followed his path into military service.