Dear Sunshine,
The incident that you speak of (seeing a man already dead being scalped), also happened at Washita and was documented on a program of Custer's life leading to Greasy Grass (Little Big Horn). According to the recount of a Cavelry soldier, he found a dead Native American male laying face up, and then removed the man's "top-knot". Jereldeen, as a side note, it was one of the hardest things to watch.....but a confirmation as well.
I have no doubt that this behavior also occured at Sand Creek. It is also documented that soldiers present, under Chivington's directive, were allowed to commit such reprehensable acts. Custer was very much of the same school of thought as Chivington. There will be some who hold Custer as a hero (thanks to Libby, his wife), but there are also some of us (within my soul circle) who will attest to the fact ole George did have a darker side. This was brought out in that documentary of Custer that was shown back in March on the History Channel. Again, confirmation.
As far as making what I would term a pilgramage to Washita, although it won't be an easy thing to do, my husband and I have spoken of visiting the area. It's something we plan on doing down the road.
As to who I was, my name was Dael (pronounced Dale), and I was part of a medical unit out west. Some of the states I recollect being bounced around to include Oklahoma (the site where Washita is located), Texas, Colorado, Wyoming and Montana. I feel in love with the plains and prairie, as it was unlike any other place on earth.

During my life out west, I met and married a Native American woman, and had two children (my husband and children in this life). Lived happily among the People, until that village itself was attacked by soldiers. That's pretty much the sum of my life back then.
Do let us know if you've spoken with Raphael.
Blessings,
Argente (Eileen)