detained for about four months. Some fled to Mexico or joined Victorio. Archaeology In 1988, archaeologists from Human Systems Research, Inc., a non-profit organization, were contracted by the U.S. military to survey the Hembrillo Basin battleground. Their survey found rock art and other artifacts indicating that the Hembrillo Basin with its springs of potable water, rare in the surrounding desert, had long been a sacred site for Native Americans. Moreover, the archaeologists were able to provide insights into the battle, especially the tactics of Victorio. During a 10-year analysis, over 800 cartridges were discovered, tagged, and positioned with GPS. Forensic analysis revealed that the cartridges were fired from 147 unique rifles and carbines, and 39 separate pistols. The location of the cartridges indicated the control and management Victorio exercised over his warriors. Warriors armed with short-range 1873 Winchester repeating rifles were stationed at a spring to prevent the army from accessing water. Warriors with longer range rifles were stationed on ridge tops to fire down on the advancing American troops, keeping the attackers at a distance of . "Victorio's Apache were doing what they did best, fighting a defensive battle with a mountain at their back." During Victorio's withdrawal, he maneuvered his men from ridgetop to ridgetop to hold off the attackers. Officers from nearby White Sands Missile Range and Fort Bliss are frequently given staff tours of the battlefield to increase knowledge of small unit tactics against overwhelming odds. Artifacts, such as rifle cartridges, from the battle are still found in the 21st century. See also List of battles won by Indigenous peoples of the Americas Victorio Peak Navajo Wars References Conflicts in 1880 Battles involving the United States Battles involving the Apache 1880 in the United States Apache Wars History of United States expansionism Battle of Hembrillo History of Doña Ana County, New Mexico April 1880 events Buffalo Soldiers American frontier