Second president of the Republic of Texas, Mirabeau Lamar served at key battles for Texas Independence. When the Mexican and Texas forces faced each other at San Jacinto on April 20, 1836, Thomas J. Rusk and Walter Payne Lane were surrounded by the enemy. Lamar’s quick action the next day saved their lives and brought him a salute from the Mexican Lines. He became secretary of war in David G. Burnet’s cabinet.