 At the start of the Civil War in 1861, Covode enlisted as a private in Company D of the 4th Pennsylvania Volunteer Cavalry, raised in Ligonier Valley, Pennsylvania.During the election of officers, he was chosen as first lieutenant.The company was soon transferred to Camp Campbell near Soldiers' Home in Washington, D.C.. Covode was later promoted to captain of the company, and on March 12, 1862, to major as the 4th Pennsylvania was moved rapidly to the front.