[1] Sattlerlee obtained his medical license in 1818 and began practicing in rural Seneca County, New York.

During his time there, he was given an official commendation by his commanding officer, future U.S. President Zachary Taylor.

After a tour of duty at Fort Adams in Newport, Rhode Island, Satterlee was sent to serve in the Mexican–American War.

He served throughout most of the American Civil War as head of the Union Army's Medical Purveyor's Office in New York City.

During the war he was brevetted a Brigadier General and was a candidate for the command of the Medical Corps following the dismissal of Clement Finley.