On November 29, 1862, he was given a star and assigned to command the Michigan Cavalry Brigade (Michigan Brigade), which consisted of several cavalry regiments. Copeland and the Michigan Cavalry Brigade distinguished themselves at the First Battle of Kernstown. "When the Confederates broke, he [Copeland] unleashed his men...in pursuit. Stone walls and fences did not dissipate the enthusiasm of the horsemen when Copeland gave the order to charge. Between two and three hundred retreating Rebels fell prisoner to them."