uch an exciting event as the raid into Mexico surely couldn’t escape the notice of Hollywood script writers. Sure. Richard Carlson, perhaps best remembered as the communist-hunting hero of the Cold War–era TV series , played the title role of Colonel Mackenzie for 39 rousing episodes. Operating under secret orders from President Grant and General Sheridan, Mackenzie was to put a stop to both Indian and attacks against the Texas settlements by pursuing the raiders across the Rio Grande if necessary (which, of course, it was in every episode). If caught south of the border, they would be disowned by the U.S. government. Naturally undaunted, the colonel and his men galloped to and fro for several seasons of stealthy attacks and flashing sabers. Each episode closed with a stirring reminder: “Mackenzie’s raiders did ride again…and again, carrying out the secret orders of the president of the United States: Do whatever necessary to clean up the Southwest, make it a decent place for people to live.”
