Born in Germany, Laiboldt came to the United States with his family as a child.

At the start of the Civil War, he became lieutenant colonel of the 2nd Missouri and led the regiment at Pea Ridge.

In 1846, he volunteered to fight in the Mexican-American War, first serving in Company F of the 1st Missouri St. Louis Legion.

[1] At the start of the Atlanta Campaign, Laiboldt commanded the 2nd Missouri which was assigned to Francis T. Sherman's 1st Brigade, John Newton's 2nd Division, Oliver Otis Howard's IV Corps.

[2] On August 14, the garrison of Dalton was summoned to surrender by Joseph Wheeler's cavalry.

In the Second Battle of Dalton, Laiboldt commanded 288 fit men and 94 convalescents from the 2nd Missouri, 52 troopers from the 7th Regiment Kentucky Volunteer Cavalry, 30 wagon drivers, and 20 scouts.