Born in Detroit, Michigan. Graduate of West Point in 1802 and received a commission as 1st lieutenant with the Corps of Engineers. He rose through promotions to captain in 1805, major in 1808, lieutenant colonel in 1810, and adjutant general in 1812.

Macomb was in command of the area near Lake Champlain. His forces defeated the British at Plattsburgh. He was appointed chief of the engineer corps in 1821. He was promoted to major general and commander in chief in the Army May 24, 1828. He died in Washington, D. C.

Congress honored Macomb with a gold medal by resolution November 3, 1814, for his victory at Plattsburgh. Dies were by Moritz Furst (Julian MI-16). Modern copies (USM 416) were produced by the mint.

bio: ApCAB; DAB; Drake; Failor; Loubat; NCAB 2; TCBDA; WWWA-H