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United States expedition to Korea From Wikipedia

5/22/2014

 
The United States expedition to Korea, the Shinmiyangyo, or simply the Korean Expedition, in 1871, was the first American military action in Korea. It took place predominantly on and around the Korean island of Ganghwa. The reason for the presence of the American naval force in Korea was to support an American diplomatic delegation sent to establish trade and political relations with the peninsular nation, to ascertain the fate of the merchant ship General Sherman, and to establish a treaty assuring aid for shipwrecked sailors. When Korean shore batteries attacked two American warships on 1 June, a punitive expedition was launched 10 days later after the commanding American admiral failed to receive an official apology from the Koreans. The isolationist nature of the Joseon Dynastygovernment and the assertiveness of the Americans led to a misunderstanding between the two parties that changed a diplomatic expedition into an armed conflict. On 10 June, about 650 Americans landed and captured several forts, killing over 200 Korean troops with a loss of only three American dead. Korea continued to refuse to negotiate with the United States until 1882.

   The expedition consisted of about 650 men, over 500 sailors and 100 marines, as well as five warships:[1] Colorado, Alaska, Palos, Monocacy, and Benicia. Embarked aboard Colorado was Rear Admiral John Rodgers, also Frederick F. Low, the United States Ambassador to China.[2][3] The Korean forces, known as "Tiger Hunters", were led by General Eo Jae-yeon (Hangul; 어재연 Hanja; 魚在淵).

The Americans safely made contact with the Korean inhabitants, described as "people wearing white clothes". When they inquired about the SS General Shermanincident, the Koreans were initially reluctant to discuss the topic, ostensibly to avoid having to pay any recompense. The Americans consequently let the Koreans know that their fleet would be exploring the area, and that they meant no harm. This gesture was misinterpreted; Korean policy at the time prohibited foreign ships from sailing on the Han River, as it led directly to the capital city of Hanyang, modern day Seoul. On 1 June the Korean fortress fired at the U.S. fleet as they sailed up the Ganghwa Straits, which leads to the river. The U.S. forces were not badly damaged, due "to the bad gunnery of the Coreans, whose fire, although very hot for the fifteen minutes in which they maintained it, was ill-directed, and consequently without effect." Along with the cannons being arranged in rows, one tier above another on the hill-side, and fired by a train of powder."[4] The U.S. demanded an apology within 10 days; there was no response so Rodgers decided on a punitive assault on the forts.[3]

    On 10 June, the Americans attacked the lightly defended Choji Garrison on Ganghwa, along the Salee River. The Koreans were armed with severely outdated weapons, such as matchlock muskets. After they were quickly overrun, the Americans moved onto their next objective, the Deokjin Garrison. The poorly armed Korean forces were kept from effective range by American 12-pound howitzers. The American troops continued on towards the next objective, Deokjin Fort, which they found abandoned. The sailors and marines quickly dismantled this fortress and continued to Gwangseong Garrison, a citadel. By this time, Korean forces had regrouped there. Along the way, some Korean units tried to flank the US forces, but were beaten off again due to the strategic placement of artillery on two hills.
Artillery fire from ground forces and Monocacy offshore pounded the citadel in preparation for an assault by US forces. A force of 546 sailors and 105 Marines grouped on the hills west of the fortress (infantry troops were on the hill directly west of the fortress, while artillery troops on another hill both shelled the fortress and also covered the Americans' flanks and rear) keeping cover and returning fire. Once the bombardments stopped, the Americans charged the citadel, led by Lt. Hugh McKee. The slow reload time of the Korean matchlocks aided the Americans, who were armed with superior Remington rolling block carbines, to make it over the walls; the Koreans even ended up throwing rocks at the attackers.

McKee was the first to make it into the citadel, and was fatally wounded by a shot to the groin. After him came Commander Winfield Scott Schley. Schley shot the Korean soldier who killed McKee.[5] The flag of the Korean commander, General Eo Jae-yŏn, called the "Sujagi" by Koreans, was captured by Corporal Charles Brown of Colorado's guard and Private Hugh Purvis ofAlaska's guard.[6] General Eo was killed by Private James Dougherty.[7] While serving as the color bearer for Colorado's crew and Marines, Colorado Carpenter Cyrus Hayden planted the US flag on the ramparts under heavy enemy fire. Corporal Brown, Privates Dougherty and Purvis, and Carpenter Hayden received the Medal of Honor.The fighting lasted fifteen minutes. In the end, 243 Koreans were counted dead in the forts and three Americans were also killed in the fighting. The American casualties were McKee, Seaman Seth Allen, and U.S. Marine Corps Private Denis Hanrahan,[8] 10 Americans were wounded; 20 Koreans were captured, several of whom were wounded. Five Korean forts were taken in total, with dozens of various small cannon.[9][10] The Korean deputy commander was among the wounded who were captured.[11] The US hoped to use the captives as a bargaining chip to meet with local officials, but the Koreans refused, calling the captives cowards and "Low was told that he was welcome to keep the wounded prisoners".[12]

Following the military operations of 10-12 June, the United States Asiatic Squadron stayed at anchorage off Jakyak Island until 3 July, when they left for China.
     
The United States was not able to achieve its objectives diplomatically, as the Koreans refused to negotiate. In fact, these events led the regent Daewon-gun to strengthen his policy of isolation and issue a national proclamation against appeasing foreigners.[15] However, in 1876, Korea established a trade treaty with Japan after Japanese ships approached Ganghwado and threatened to fire on Seoul. Treaties with European countries and the U.S. soon followed.

Nine sailors and six Marines were awarded the Medal of Honor, the first for actions in a foreign conflict.

      From April-May 1882, the United States and Korea negotiated and approved a 14-article treaty.[16] The treaty established mutual friendship and mutual assistance in case of attack;[17] and also addressed such specific matters as extraterritorial rights for American citizens in Korea[18] and most favored nation trade status.[19]

The treaty remained in effect until the annexation of Korea in 1910.

for more information on this little known portion of US history check out the following web sites:
http://www.shinmiyangyo.org
http://www.history.navy.mil/library/online/marine_amphib_korea.htm
http://www.history.army.mil/moh/korean1871.html


US Medal of Honor Recipients from New York State: 1866-1871

5/22/2014

 
US Medal of Honor Recipients from New York State

Interim years 1866-1870

Richard Bates: Seaman US Navy

B: Wales         ES: NY           RM: 8/1/1866

Heroic conduct in rescuing from drowning James Rose and John Russell, Seaman of the U.S.S. Winooski off Eastport Maine 5/10/1866

Thomas Burke: Seaman US Navy

B: 1833 Ireland                      ES: NY                       RM: 8/1/1866

Heroic conduct in rescuing from drowning James Rose and John Russell, Seaman of the U.S.S. Winooski off Eastport Maine 5/10/1866

James Carey: Seaman US Navy

B: 1844 Ireland                      ES: NY                       RM: Unknown          Seaman on board the USS Huron saving 3 shipmates from drowning.

Thomas Robinson: Cpt. Of the afterguard US Navy

B: 5/17/1837 Norway                        ES: NY                       RM: 8/1/1866

For heroic efforts to save from drowning Wellington Brocar, Landsman, of the Tallapoosa off New Orleans 7/15/1866

Korean Campaign 1871

Charles Brown: Cpl US Marine Corps

B: NY NY                  ES: Hong Kong China                      RM: 2/8/1872

On board the USS Colorado in action against a Korean fort on 6/11/1871.  Assisted in capturing the Korean standard in the center of the citadel of the fort.

Alexander McKenzie: Boatswain’s mate US Navy

B:1837 Scotland                    ES: NY NY                RM: 2/8/1872

On board the USS Colorado during the capture of the Korean fort, 6/11/1871.  Fighting at the side of Lt. McKee during this action, McKenzie was struck by a sword and received a severe cut in the head from the blow.

Michael McNamera: Pvt. US Marine Corps

B; 1841 Clure Ireland                       ES: NY NY                RM: 2/8/1872

On board the USS Benicia during the capture of the Korean fort, 6/11/1871.  Advancing on the parapet, McNamera wrenched the matchlock (Musket) from the hands of an enemy and killed him.

Samuel F. Rogers: Quarter master US Navy

B: 1848 Buffalo NY                          ES: NY                       RM: 2/8/1872

On board the USS Colorado during the attack and capture of the Korean fort 6/11/1871. Fighting courteously at the side of Lt. McKee during this action Rogers was wounded by the enemy.

the Indian campaigns continued

5/22/2014

 
Robert Temple Emmet:2nd Lt. 9th US Cavalry

B: NY NY      ES: NY NY    RM: 8/24/1899

  Lt Emmet was in G Troop which was sent to relieve a detachment of soldiers under attack by hostile Apaches. During a flank attack on the Indian camp, made to divert the hostiles, Lt. Emmet and 5 of his men became surrounded when the Indians returned to defend their camp.  Finding that the Indians were making for a position from which they could direct their fire on the retreating troop, the Lt. held his point with his party until the soldiers reached the safety of a canyon.  Lt. Emmet then continued to hold his position while his party recovered their horses. The enemy force consisted of 200 at Las Animas Canyon New Mexico 9/18/1879

Peter W. Gardiner:Pvt. Co H 6th US Cavalry

B: Carlisle NY            ES: Unknown RM: 11/16/1876

With 5 men he waded in mud and water up the creek to a position directly behind and entrenched Cheyenne position, who were using natural bank pits to good advantage against the main column. This surprise attack from the enemy rear broke their resistance at Sappa Creek Kansas 4/23/1875

T.B. Glover:Sgt. Troop B 2nd US Cavalry

B: NY             ES: unknown              RM: 11/20/1897

While in charge of small scouting parties, fought, charged, surrounded and captured was parties of Sioux Indians at Mizpah Creek Mont. 4/10/1879

Matthew H. Hamilton: Pvt. Co G 7th US Cavalry

B: Australia                 ES: NY NY                RM: 5/25/1891

Bravery in action at Wounded Knee Creek S. Dakota 12/29/1890

Charles D. Harris: Sgt. 8th US Cavalry

B: Albion NY             ES: Unknown             RM: 11/23/1869

Gallantry in action at Red Creek Arizona 9/23/1869

Charles F. Humphrey:1st Lt. 4th US Artillery

B: NY             ES: Unknown             RM: 3/2/1897

Voluntarily and successfully conducted, in the face of a withering fire, a party which recovered possession of an abandoned Howitzer and 2 Gatling guns lying between the lines a few yards from the Indians at Clear Water Idaho 7/11/1877

Bernard J.D. Irwin: Assist Surgeon US Army

B: Ireland                    ES: NY                       RM: 1/24/1894

Voluntarily took command of troops and attacked and defeated hostile Indians he met on the way. Surgeon Irwin Volunteered to go to the rescue of 2nd Lt. George N. Bascom 7th Infantry, who, with 60 men was trapped by Chiricahua Apaches under Cochise.  Irwin and 14 men, not having horses, began the 100 mile march riding mules.  After fighting and capturing Indians, recovered stolen horses and cattle, he reached Bascom’s column and helped break his siege at Apache Pass Arizona 2/13-2/14/1861

 

 

Frederick Jarvis:Sgt. Co G 1st US Cavalry

B: Essex County NY              ES: unknown              RM: 2/14/1887

Gallantry in action at Chicicahua mountains Arizona 10/20/1869

Edward Johnston:Cpl. Co C 5th US Infantry

B: Penn Yan NY                     ES: Buffalo NY          RM:4/27/1877

Gallantry in action at Cedar Creek Etc. Montana 10/1876-1/8/1877

William Koelpin:Sgt. 5th US Infantry

B: Prussia                    ES: NY NY                RM: 4/23/1875

Gallantry in action at upper Wichita Texas 9/9/1874

Francis W. Lohnes: Pvt. Co H 1st Neb. Veteran Cavalry

B: Oneida county NY             ES: unknown              RM: 7/24/1865

Gallantry in defending Government property against Indians at Gilman’s Ranch Neb. 5/12/1865

Oscar F. Long:2nd Lt. 5th US Infantry

B: 6/16/1852 Utica NY                       ES: Utica NY              RM: 3/22/1895

Having been directed to order a troop of cavalry to advance, and finding both its officers killed, he voluntarily assumed command, and under a heavy fire from the Indians, advanced the troop to its proper position at Bear Paw Mountain Mont. 9/30/1877

Bernard McBride:Pvt. Co B 8th US Cavalry

B: Brooklyn NY                     ES: Unknown             RM: 7/24/1869

Bravery in scouts and actions against Indians at Arizona Aug.-Oct. 1868

William McBryar:SGT. 10th US Cavalry

B: 2/14/1861 Elizabethtown N.C.                  ES:NY                        RM:5/15/1890

Distinguished  himself  for  coolness, bravery, and  marksmanship while his troop was in pursuit of hostile Apache Indians at Arizona 3/7/1890

John McHugh: Pvt. Co A 5th US Infantry

B: Syracuse NY                      ES: Unknown             RM: 4/27/1877

Gallantry in action at Cedar Creek etc. Montanan 10/21/1876-1/8/1877

Charles H. McVeagh: Pvt. Co B 8th US Cavalry

B: NY NY      ES: Unknown RM: 7/24/1869

Bravery in scout AND ACTIONS AGAINST INDIANS IN Arizona Aug. – Oct. 1868

John Merrill:Sgt. Co F 5th US Cavalry

B: NY NY      ES: unknown  RM: 6/7/1880

Though painfully wounded, he remained on duty and rendered gallant and valuable service at Milk River Colo. 9/29/1879

George Miller:Cpl. Co H 5th US Infantry

B: Brooklyn NY         ES: Unknown RM: 4/27/1877

Gallantry in action at Cedar Creek etc. Montana 10/21/1876-1/8/1877

George Moquin:Cpl. Co F 5th US Cavalry

B: NY NY      ES: unknown              RM: 1/27/1880

Gallantry in action at Milk River Col. 9/29/-10/5/1879

John Nihill:Pvt. Co F 5th US Cavalry

B: 1850 Ireland           ES: Brooklyn NY       RM: 12/4/1876

Fought and defeated 4 hostile Apache located between him and his comrades at Whetstone mountain Ariz. 7/13/1872

John O’Callaghan:Sgt. Co B 8th US Cavalry

B: NY NY      ES: Unknown RM: 7/24/1869

Bravery in scouts and actions against Indians at Arizona Aug.-Oct. 1868

John O’Sullivan:Pvt. Co I 4th US Cavalry

B: Ireland        ES: NY NY                RM: 10/13/1875

Gallantry in a long chase after Indians at Staked Plains Texas 12/8/1874

William R. Parnell:1st Lt. 1st US Cavalry

B: Ireland        ES: NY NY                RM: 9/16/1897

With a few men, in the face of a heavy fire from pursuing Indians and , at imminent peril, returned and rescued a soldier whose horse has been killed and who had been left behind in the retreat at While Bird Canyon Idaho 6/17/1877       

Thomas Powers:Cpl Co G 1st US Cavalry

B: NY NY                  ES: Unknown             RM: 2/14/1877

Gallantry in action at Chiricahua Mountain Arizona 10/20/1869

Edward Rooney: Pvt. Co D 5th US Infantry

B: Poughkeepse NY               ES: Poughkeepsi NY              RM: 4/27/1877

Gallantry in action at Cedar Creek, Etc. Montana 10/21/1876-1/8/1877

Albert Sale:Pvt. Co F 8th US Cavalry

B: Broome County NY                       ES: Unknown             RM: 3/3/1870

  Gallantry in killing an Indian warrior and capturing pony and effects at Santa Maria River Arizona 6/29/1869

Robert B. Scott:Co G 8th US Cavalry

B: Washington County NY                ES: unknown              RM: 2/14/1870

Gallantry in action at Chiricahua Mountain Arizona 10/20/1869

Charles E. Smith:Cpl. Co H 6th US Cavalry

B: Auburn NY                        ES: unknown              RM: 8/25/1870

Gallantry in action at Wichita River Texas 7/12/1870

George W. Smith:Pvt. Co M 6th US Cavalry

B: Greenfield NY                   ES: Unknown             RM: 11/4/1874- posthumously

While carrying dispatches was attacked by 125 hostile Indians, whom he and his comrades fought throughout the day.  Pvt. Smith was mortally wounded during the engagement and died early the next morning at Wichita River Texas 9/12/1874

Edward Stanley:Cpl. Co F 8th US Cavalry

B: NY NY                  ES: unknown              RM: 3/3/1870

Gallantry in action at Seneca Mountain Arizona 8/26/1869

 

George W. Thompson:Pvt. Co C 2nd US Cavalry

B: Victory NY                        ES: Unknown             RM: 6/22/1870

Gallantry in action at Little Blue Nebraska 5/15/1870

John Thompson: Sgt. Co G 1st US Cavalry

B: Scotland                 ES: NY NY                RM: 2/14/1870

  Bravery in action with Indians at Chiricahua Mountain Arizona 10/20/18691st Little Blue Nebraska 5/15/1870na 8/26/1869t. Smith was mortally wounded during the engagement and died early the n

Frederick E. Toy:1st Sgt. Co G 7th US Cavalry

B: Buffalo NY                        ES: unknown              RM: 5/26/1891

Bravery at wounded Knee Creek S. Dakota 12/29/1890

James C. Watson: Cpl. Co L 6th US Cavalry

B: Cochocton NY                   ES: Unknown             RM: 8/25/1870

Gallantry in action at Wichita River Texas 7/12/1870

Michael Welch: Sgt. Co M 6th US Cavalry

B: Poughkeepsie NY              ES: Unknown             RM: 11/19/1870

Gallantry in action at Wichata River Texas 10/5/1870

Frank West: 1st Lt. 6th US Cavalry

B: Mohawk NY                      ES: Mohawk NY                    RM: 7/12/1892

Rallied his command and led it in the advance against the enemy’s fortified position at Big Dry Wash Arizona 7/17/1882

Charles Windolph:Pvt. Co H 7th US Cavalry

B: 12/9/1851 Germany            ES: Brooklyn NY                   RM: 10/5/1878

With 3 comrades, during the entire engagement, courageously held a position that secured water for the command at Little Big Horn Mont. 6/25-26/1876

Medal of honor recipients from NYS- The Indian Campaigns

5/22/2014

 
New York State Medal of honor recipients

The Indian campaigns

William Allan:1st Sgt. Co I 23rd US Infantry

B: Brightstown NY                ES: Lansingbury NY  RM 4/12/1875

  Gallantry in action at Turret Mountain Arizona 3/27/1873

John Baker: Musician Co D 5th US Infantry

B: Germany                 ES: Brooklyn NY       RM: 4/27/1877

   Gallantry in engagements at Cedar Creek Montanan, etc. Oct. 1876-Jan. 1877

Edmond Butler: Capt. 5th US Infantry

B: Ireland        ES: Brooklyn NY       RM: 11/27/1894

  Most distinguished gallantry in action with hostile Indians at Wolf Mountain Mont. 1/8/1877

William H. Carter: 1st. Lt. 6th US Cavalry

B: Tenn.          ES: NY                       RM: 9/17/1891

  Rescued with the voluntary assistance of 2 soldiers, the wounded from under a heavy fire at Cibico Ariz. 8/30/1881

James S. Casey : Capt. 5th US Infantry

B: PA              ES: NY                       RM: 11/27/1894

  Led his command in a successful charge against superior numbers of the enemy strongly posted at Wolf Mountain Mont. 1/8/1877

Charles Cuningham: Cpl. Co B 7th US Cavalry

B: Hudson NY            ES: NY NY    RM: 10/5/1878

Declined to leaves the line when wounded in the neck during heavy fire and fought bravely all next day at Little Big Horn river Mont. 6/25/1876

John Denny: Sgt. Co C 9th US Cavalry

B: Big Flats NY          ES: 1867 Elmira NY               RM: 11/27/1894

   Removed a wounded comrade under a heavy fire to a place of safety at Las Animas Canyon New Mexico 9/18/1879.

William D. Edwards: 1sy Sgt. Co F 7th US Infantry

B: Brooklyn NY         ESUnknown   RM: 12/2/1878

Bravery in action at Big Hole Mont. 8/9/1878

George H. Eldridge:Sgt. Co C 6th US Cavalry

B: Sacketts harbor NY            ES: unknown  RM: 8/28/1870

Gallantry in action at Wichita River Tex. 7/12/1870

 

US Medal of Honor recipients from New York State- US Civil war

5/17/2014

 
James R. O’Beirne  :Capt. Co C 31st NY Infantry

B:Ireland         ES: NY           RM: 1/20/1891

Gallantly maintained the line of battle until ordered to fall back at Fair oaks Va. 5/31/&6/1/1862

Paul A. Oliver :Cpl. Co D 12th NY Infantry

B: 7/18/1831   ES: NY           RM: 10/12/1892

While acting as aide assistant in preventing a disaster caused by Union troops firing into each other at Resaca Ga. 5/15/1864

Charles A. Orr  :Pvt. Co G. 187th NY Infantry

B: Holland NY           ES: Bennington NY    RM: 4/1/1898

            This soldier and 2 others, voluntarily and under fire, rescued several wounded and helpless soldiers at Hatchers Run Va. 10/27/1864

Loron F. Packard  :Pvt. Co E. 5th NY Cavalry

B: Cattaraugus County NY    ES: Cuba NY  RM: 8/20/1894

 After his command had retreated, this soldier, voluntarily and alone, returned to the assistance of a comrade and rescued him from the hands of 3 armed confederates at Raccoon Ford Va. 1/27/1863

Henry Jeremiah Parks  :Pvt. Co A 9th NY Cavalry

B: 2/24/1848 Orangeville NY ES: Orangeville NY    RM: 10/26/1864

  While alone and in advance of his unit and attempting to cut off the retreat of a supply wagon, he fought and sent to flight a confederate color bearer.  After capturing the color bearer and leaving him in the rear, he returned to the front and captured 3 more wagons and drivers at Cedar creek Va. 10/19/1864

John H. Patterson  : 1st Lt. 11th OS Infantry

B: NY ES: NY           RM: 7/23/1897

   Under heavy fire o the advancing enemy, picked up and carried several hundred yards to a place of safety, a wounded officer of his regiment who was helpless and would otherwise have been burned in the forest at Wilderness Va. 5/5/1864

William Plimley  : 1st Lt. Co F 120th NY Infantry

B: Catskill NY            ES: Catskill NY          RM: 4/4/1898

   While acting as an aide to a General officer, voluntarily accompanied a regiment in an assault on the enemy’s works and acted as leader of the movement which resulted in the rout of the enemy and the capture of a large number of prisoners at Hatcher Run Va. 4/21/1865

Wiliam Porter  : Sgt. Co H 1st NJ Cavalry

B: NY NY      ES: unknown  RM: 7/3/1865

   Among the first to check the enemy’s counter charge at Sailors Creek Va. 4/6/1865

Norman F. Potter  :1st Sgt. Co E. 149th NY Infantry

B: Pompey NY           ES: Pompey NY         RM: 6/24/1865

   Capture of flag (Bragg’s army) at Lookout mountain Tenn. 11/24/1863

Noble D. Preston  ; 1st Lt. and commissary 10th NY Cavalry

B; unknown    ES: Fulton NY            RM: 11/22/1889

   Voluntarily led a charge in which he was severely wounded at Trevelyan Station Va. 6/11/1864

Edgar P. Putman  :Sgt. Co D 9th NY Cavalry

B; Stockton NY          ES: Stockton NY        RM: 5/13/1892

   With a small force on a reconnaissance , drove off a strong body of the enemy, charged into another force of the enemy’s Cavalry  and stampeded them, taking 27 prisoners at Crump’s Creek Va. 5/27/1864

James Quinlan  : Maj. 88th NY Infantry

B: 9/13/1833 Ireland               ES: NY NY    RM: 2/18/1891

   Led his regiment on the enemy’s  battery, silenced the guns, held the position against overwhelming numbers and covered the retreat of the 2nd Army Corps at Savage Station Va. 6/29/1862

Peter Rafferty  :Pvt. Co B 69th NY Infantry

B: Ireland        ES: NY NY    RM: 8/2/1897

   Having been wounded and directed tot eh rear, declined to go but continued in action, recieveing several more wounds, which resulted in his capture by the enemy and his total disability for military service at Malvern Hill Va. 7/1/1862

Charles F. Rand  : Pvt. Co K 12th NY Infantry

B: Batavia NY            ES: Batavia NY          RM: 10/23/1897

   Remained in action when a part of his regiment broke in disorder, joined another company, and fought with it through the remainder of the engagement at Blackburn’s Ford Va. 7/18/1861

Myron H. Ranney :  Pvt. Co G 13th NY Infantry

B:Franklinville NY     ES: Unknown RM: 3/23/1895

   Picked up the colors and carried them off the field after the color bearer had been shot down; was himself wounded at Bull Run Va. 8/30/1862

William H. Raymond  : Cpl Co A 108th NY Infantry

B: Penfield NY           ES: Penfield NY         RM: 3/10/1896

   Voluntarily and under a severe fire brought a box of ammunition to his comrades on the skirmish line at Gettysburg Pa. 7/3/1863

Morton A. Read  : Lt. Co D 8th NY Cavalry

B: Brockport NY        ES: Brockport NY      RM: 5/3/1865

   Capture of flag of 1st Texas Infantry at Appomattox Station Va. 4/8/1865

George Reynolds  :Pvt. Co M 9th NY Cavalry

B: Ireland        ES: NY,  NY  RM: 9/27/1864

  Capture of flag at Winchester Va. 9/19/1864

Julius D. Rhodes  :    Pvt. Co F 5th NY Cavalry

B: Monroe County Michigan  ES: Springville NY     RM: 3/9/1887

   After having had his horse shot under hime in the fight at Thoroughfare Gap Va., he voluntarily joined the 105th NY volunteers and was conspicuous in the advance on the enemy’s lines, displayed gallantry in the advance on the skirmish line at Bull Run Va. 8/28/1862

Rudolph Riddell  :Lt. Co I 61st NY Infantry

B: Hamilton NY         ES: Hamilton NY       RM: 5/10/1865

  Captured the flag of the 6th Alabama Cavalry at Sailors Creek Va. 4/6/1865

Robert S. Robertson  : 1st Lt. Co K 93rd NY Infantry

B: Argyle NY ES: Argyle NY           RM: 8/2/1897

   While acting as aide-de-camp to a General Officer, seeing a regiment break to the rear, he seized its colors, rode with them to the front in the face of the advancing enemy, and rallied the retreating regiment at Corbins Bridge Va. 5/8/1864

John C. Robinson  :Brig. Gen. US Volunteers

B: Binghamton NY     ES: Binghamton NY   RM: 3/28/1894

   Placed himself at the head of the leading brigade in a charge upon the enemy’s breastworks and was severely wounded at Laurel Hill Va. 5/8/1864

Charles M. Rockefeller: Lt. Co A 178th NY Infantry

B: NY ES: NY           RM: 8/2/1897

   Voluntarily and alone, under a heavy fire, obtained valuable information which a reconnoitering party of 25 men had previously attempted and failed to obtain; suffering severe loss in the attempt.  The information obtained by him was made the basis of the orders for the assault that followed.  He also advanced with a few followers, under the fire of both sides, and captured 300 of the enemy who would other wise have escaped at Fort Blakely Alabama 4/9/1865

Charles L. Russell  :Cpl Co H 93rd Infantry

B: Malone NY            ES: Malone NY          RM: 12/1/1864

   Captured flag of 42nd Va. Infantry at Spotsylvania Va. 5/12/1864

John T. Rutherford  : 1st Lt. Co L 9th NY Cavalry

B: Unknown   ES: Canton NY           RM: 3/22/1892

   Made a successful charge at Yellow Tavern Va. 5/11/1864 by which 90 prisoners were captured.  On May 27th 1864 in a gallant dash on a superior force of the enemy and in a personal encounter captured his opponent at Yellow Tavern Va. 5/11/1865

John C. Sagelhurst  : Sgt. Co B 1st NJ Cavalry

B: Buffalo NY            ES: Buffalo NY          RM: 1/3/1906

   Under heavy fire from the enemy carried off the field a commissioned officer who was severely wounded and also led a charge on the enemy’s rifle pits at Hatchers Run Va. 2/6/1865

Henry Sartwell  :Sgt. Co D 123rd NY Infantry

B: Ticonderoga NY    ES: St Ann NY           RM: 11/17/1896

   Was severely wounded by a gunshot in his left arm, went ½ mile to the rear but insisted on returning to his company and continued to fight bravely until he became exhausted from the loss of blood and was compelled to retire from the field at Chancellorsville Va. 5/3/1863

John Schiller  :Pvt. CO E 158 NY Infantry

B: Germany     ES: NY NY    RM: 4/6/1865

   Advanced to the ditch of the enemy’s works at Chapins Farm Va. 9/29/1864     

George W. Schmal  : Black Smith Co M 24th NY Cavalry

B: Germany     ES: Buffalo NY          RM: 5/3/1865

   Capture of flag at Paines Crossroads Va. 4/15/1865

Theodore Schwan  : 1st Lt. 10th OS Infantry

B: 7/9/1841 Germany  ES: NY           RM: 12/12/1898

  At the imminent risk of his own life, while his regiment was falling back before a superior force of the enemy, he dragged a wounded and helpless officer to the rear, thus saving him from death or capture at Peebles Farm Va. 10/1/1864

David H. Scofield: Quartermaster Sgt. Co K 5th NY Us Cavalry

B: Mamaroneck NY    ES: Unknown RM: 10/26/1864

   Capture of flag of 13th Va. Infantry at Cedar Creek Va. 10/19/1864

Alexander Shader   : Col 65th NY Infantry

B: 3/19/1827 Haddam Conn.  ES: NY NY    RM: 11/25/1893

   At a most critical moment, the head of the charging column being about to be crushed by the severe fire of  the enemy’s artillery and infantry, he pushed forward with a supporting column, pierced the enemy’s works and turned their flank at Mary’s Heights Va. 5/3/1863

Robert F. Shipley: Sgt. Co A 140th NY Infantry

B: Wayne NY             ES: Unknown             RM: 5/10/1865

   Captured the flag of the 9th va Infantry in hand to hand combat at 5 Forks Va. 4/1/1865

Daniel Sickles : Maj. Gen. US Volunteers

B: NY NY      ES: NY NY    RM: 10/30/1897

   Displayed most conspicuous gallantry on the field vigorously contesting the advance of the enemy and continuing to encourage his troops after being himself severely wounded at Gettysburg Pa. 7/2/1863

John Simmons  : Pvt. Co D 2nd NY Heavy Artillery

B: Bethel NY  ES: Liberty NY           RM: 4/24/1865

   Capture of flag at Sailors creek Va. 4/6/1865

Ebenezer Skellie  : Cpl. Co D 112th NY Infantry

B: Mina NY    ES:      Mina NY        RM:     4/6/1865

   Took the colors of his regiment, the color bearer having fallen, and carried them through the first charge; Also in the second charge, after all the color guards had been killed or wounded he carried the colors up to the enemy’s works, where he fell wounded at Chopin’s farm Va. 9/29/1864

David L. Smith  :Sgt. Battery E 1st NY light Artillery

B: unknown    ES: Bath NY   RM: 8/6/1906

   This soldier, when a shell struck an ammunition chest, exploding a number of cartridges and setting fire to the packing tow, procured water and extinguished the fire, thus preventing the explosion of the remaining ammunition at Warwick Court house Va. 4/6/1862

Richard Smith: Pvt. Co B 95th NY Infantry

B: Harverstraw, Rockland County NY          ES: Harverstraw, Rockland county NY         RM:3/13/1865

Captured 2 officers and 20 men of Hagood’s brigade while             they were endeavoring to make their way back through the woods at Weldon Railroad Va. 8/21/1864

Wilson Smith  : Cpl.  Battery H 3rd NY Lt. Artillary

B: Madison NY          ES: Madison NY        RM: 4/24/1896

  Took command of a gun ( the Lt. in charge having disappeared) and fired the same so rapidly and effectively that the enemy was repulsed, although for a time a hand to hand conflict was had over the gun at Washington NC 9/6/1862

Joseph E. Sova  :Saddler Co H 8th NY Cavalry

B: Chili NY     ES: Unknown RM: 5/3/1865

Capture of flag at Appomattox Campaign Va. 3/29-4/9/1865

Julius Stahel  : Maj. Gen. US Volunteers

B: 11/5/1825 Hungary            ES: NY NY    RM: 11/4/1893

   Led his division into action until he was severely wounded at Piedmont Va. 6/5/1864

John H. Starkins  : Sgt. 34th NY Battery

B: Great Neck NY      ES: unknown              RM: 7/30/1896

  Brought off his piece without losing a man at Campbell Station Tenn. 11/16/1863

Harlan J. Swift  : 2nd Lt. Co H 2nd NY Militia regiment

B: New Hudson NY   ES: NY           RM: 7/20/1897

  Having advanced with his regiment and captured the enemy’s line, saw 4 of the enemy retiring towards their second line of works.  He advanced upon them alone, compelled their surrender and regained his regiment with the 4 prisoners at Petersburg Va. 7/30/1864

 

Benjamin Thackrah  : Pvt. Co H 115th NY Infantry

B: Scotland     ES: Johnsonville NY   RM: 5/2/1890

   Was a volunteer in the surprise and capture of the enemy’s picket near Fort Getes Fla. 4/1/1864

George W. Thompkins  :Cpl. Co F 124th NY Infantry

B: Orange County NY            ES: Esport Jervis NY  RM: 4/6/1865

   Capture o flag of 49th Alabama Infantry from an officer who, with colors in hand, was rallying his men at Petersburg Va. 3/25/1865

Allen Thompson  : Pvt. Co I 4th NY Heavy Artillary

B; NY NY      ES: Port Jarvis NY      RM: 4/22/1896

   Made a hazardous reconnaissance through timber and slashing proceeding the union line of battle, signaling the troops and leading them through the obstruction at White Oak Road Va. 4/1/1865

James Thompson  : Pvt. Co K 4th NY Heavy artillery

B: Sandy Creek NY    ES: Sandy Creek NY  RM: 4/22/1896

Made a hazardous reconnaissance through timber and slashing proceeding the union line of battle, signaling the troops and leading them through the obstruction at White Oak Road Va. 4/1/1865

J. ( James) Harry Thompson  :  Surgeon US Volunteers

B: England      ES: NY           RM: 11/11/1870

   Voluntarily reconnoitered the enemy’s position and carried orders under the hottest fire at New Born NC 3/14/1862

Clifford Thomson   : 1st Lt. Co A 1st NY Cavalry

B: Unknown   ES: NY NY    RM: 11/27/1896

   Volunteered to ascertain the character of approaching troops; rode up so closely as to distinguish the features of the enemy, and as he wheeled to return, they opened fire with musketry.  The union troop returned same.  Under a terrible fire from both sides, Lt. Thompson rode back unhurt to the federal lines, averting a disaster to the army by his heroic act at Chancellorsville Va. 5/2/1863

Walter Thorn  : 2nd Lt. Co G 116th US Colored troops

B: NY NY      ES: unknown  RM: 12/8/1898

   After the fuse of the mined bulkhead had been lit, this officer, learning that the picket guard had not been withdrawn, mounted the bulkhead and, at great personal peril, warned the guard of its danger at Dutch Gap Canal Va. 1/1/1865

Charles H. Tompkins   : 1st Lt. 2nd US Cavalry

B: Fort Monroe           ES: Brooklyn NY       RM: 11/13/1893

   Twice charged through the enemy’s lines and, taking a carbine from an enlisted man, shot the enemy’s captain at Fairfax Va. 6/1/1861

Thomas Toohey  : Sgt. 24th Wis. Infantry

B: NY NY      ES: unknown  RM: unknown

   Gallantry in action; voluntarily assisting in working the guns of battery near the rear of the regiment after nearly every man had left them, the fire of the enemy being hottest at this than any other point on the line at Franklin Tenn. 11/30/1864

Benjamin F. Tracey  : Col. 109th NY Infantry

B: 4/26/1830 Owego NY        ES: Owego NY           RM: 6/21/1895

   Seized the colors and led the regiment when other regiments had retired and then reformed his line and held it at Wilderness Va. 5/6/1864

William G. Tracy  : 2nd Lt. Co I 122nd NY Infantry

B: Onondaga  NY       ES: Onondaga NY      RM: 5/2/1895

   Having been sent outside the lines to obtain certain information of great importance and having succeeded in his mission, was surprised upon his return by a large force of the enemy, regaining the union lines only after greatly imperiling his life at Chancellorsville Va. 5/2/1863

Andrew Trayner  :Cpl. Co D 1st Michagan Cavalry

B: Newark NJ             ES: Rome NY             RM: 9/28/1897

  Having been surprised and captured by a detachment of guerrillas, this soldier, with other prisoners, seized the arms of the guard over them, killed 2 of the guerillas and enabled all of the prisoners to escape at Mason’s hill  Va. 3/16/1864

Henry E. Tremain  : Maj and Aide-De-Camp US volunteers

B: NY NY      ES: NY NY    RM: 6/30/1892

   Voluntarily rode between the lines while 2 brigades of union troops were firing into each other and stopped the firing at Resaca Ga. 5/15/1864

John Tribe  : Pvt. Co G 5th NY Cavalry

B: Tioga County NY              ES: Oswego NY         RM: 6/11/1895

   Voluntarily assisted in the burning and destruction of the bridge under heavy fire of the enemy at Waterloo Bridge Va. 8/25/1862

Edward Van Winkle  : Cpl Co C 148thNY Infantry

B: Phelps NY              ES: Phelps NY            RM: 4/6/1865

   Took position in advance of the skirmish line and drove the enemy’s cannoneers from their guns at Chapin Farm Va. 9/29/1864

Earnest Von Vegesack  : Maj. & Aide-De-Camp US Volunteers

B: Sweden                  ES: NY NY    RM: 8/23/1893

   While voluntarily serving as Aide-De-Camp, successfully and advantageously charged the position of troops under fire at Gaines Mill Va. 6/27/1862

Jerry Wall  : Pvt. Co B 126th NY Infantry

B: Geneva NY                        ES: Milo NY               RM: 12/1/1864

   Capture of flag at Gettysburg PA 7/3/1863

William H. Walling  : Capt. Co C 142nd NY Infantry

B: Hartford NY          ES: Unknown             RM: 3/28/1892

   During the bombardment of the fort by the fleet, captured and brought the flag to the fort, the flagstaff having been shot down at Fort Fisher NC 12/25/1864

Martin Wambsgon : Pvt. Co D 90th NY Infantry

B: Germany                 ES: Cayuga County NY         RM: 11/3/1896

   While the enemy was in close proximity, this soldier sprang forward and bore off in safety the regimental colors, the color bearer having fallen on the field of battle at Cedar Creek Va.  10/19/1864

Alexander S. Webb : Brig. Gen. US Volunteers

B: 2/15/1835 NY NY             ES: NY NY                RM: 9/28/1891

   Distinguished personal gallantry in leading his men forward at a critical period in the contest at Gettysburg PA. 7/3/1863 

James Webb  : Pvt. Cop F 5th NY Infantry

B: Brooklyn NY         ES: unknown              RM: 9/17/1897

  Under heavy fire voluntarily carried information to a battery commander that enabled him to save his guns from capture, was severely wounded but refused to go to the hospital and participated in the remainder of the campaign at Bull Run Va. 8/30/1862

John H. Weeks   : Pvt. Co H 152nd NY Infantry

B: 3/15/1845 Hampton Conn.             ES: Hartwick Seminary NY   RM: 12/1/1864

  Capture of flag and color bearer using an empty cocked rifle while out numbered 5 or 6 to 1 at Spotsylvania Pa. 5/12/1864

Henry C. Weir  : Capt. And Assist. Adjutant Gen.

B: West Point NY       ES: unknown              RM: 5/18/1898

   The division being pressed and falling back, this officer dismounted, gave his horse to a wounded officer and thus enabled him to escape.  Afterward, on foot, Capt. Weir rallied and took command of  some stragglers and helped to repel the last charge of the enemy at St. Mary’s church Va. 6/24/1864

Stephen Welch: Sgt. Co C 154th NY Infantry

B: Groton NY             ES: Allegany Cattaraugus county NY            RM: 4/13/1894

    Risked his life in rescuing a wounded comrade under fire of the enemy at Dug Gap Ga. 5/8/1864          

Henry S. Wills  : Pvt. Co G 148th NY Infantry

B: unknown                ES: Phelps NY            RM: posthumously 4/6/1865

    With 2 comrades, took position in advance of the skirmish line, within short distance of the enemy’s gunners, and drove them from their guns at Chapins Farm Va. 9/29/1864

Thomas M. Wills  : Chief bugler 6th NY Cavalry

B: Ireland                    ES: DeKalb NY          RM: 10/26/1864

   Capture of colors of 44th Georgia Infantry at Cedar Creel Va. 10/19/1864

 Le Roy Williams  :Sgt Co G 8th NY Heavy artillery

B: Oswego NY           ES: unknown              RM: 4/1/1898

   Voluntarily exposed himself to the fire of the enemy’s sharp shooters and located the body of his colonel who had been killed close tot eh enemy lines.  Under cover of darkness, with 4 companions, he recovered the body and brought it within union lines, having approached within a few feet of the confederate pickets while so engaged at Cold Harbor Va. 6/3/1864

William W. Winegar : LT. Co B 19th NY Cavalry  ( 1st NY Dragoons)

B: Springport NY                   ES: unknown              RM: 5/3/1865

   While advancing in front of his company and alone, he found himself surrounded by the enemy.  He accosted a nearby enemy flag bearer, demanding the surrender of the group.  His effective firing of one shot so demoralized the unit it surrendered with flag at 5 Forks Va. 4/1/1865 

Lewis S. Wisner  : 1st Lt. Co K 124th NY Infantry

B: Wallkill Orange county NY           ES: Wallkill Orange county NY         RM: 1/2/1895

   While serving as an engineer officer, voluntarily exposed himself to enemy fire at Spotsylvania VA. 5/12/1864

James M. Young  : Pvt. Co B 72nd NY Infantry

B: Chautauqua County NY                ES: Chautauqua County NY              RM: 4/2/1898

   With 2 companions, voluntarily went forward in the forest to reconnoiter the enemy’s position, was fired upon and one of his companions disabled.  Pvt. Young took the wounded man upon his back and, under fire, carried him with in the union lines at Wilderness Va. 5/6/1864

Post script note: Aide-de-camp are attached to the person of the general, and receive orders only from him. Their functions are difficult and delicate. Often enjoying the full confidence of the general, they are employed in representing him, in writing orders, in carrying them in person if necessary, in communicating them verbally upon the battlefield and fields of maneuver. It is important that aide-de-camp should know well the position of troops, routes, post, quarters of generals, composition of columns, and orders of corps; facility in the use of the pen should be joined with exactness of expression; upon fields of battle they watch the movements of the enemy; not only grand maneuvers but special tactics should be familiar to them. It is necessary that their knowledge be sufficiently comprehensive to understand the object and purpose of all orders, and also to judge, in the varying circumstances of a battlefield, whether it is not necessary to modify an order when carried in person, or if there be time to return for new instructions.

    Here ends the Medal of Honor recipients from NY- the US Civil War.  Stay tuned for our next post US Medal of Honor recipients’ form NY- Indian campaigns.

Medal of Honor recipients from NY- Civil war continued

5/17/2014

 

medal of honor recipients cont.

5/9/2014

 
Andrew Kuder  : 2nd Lt. Co G. 8th NY Cavalry

B: Groveland NY       ES: Unknown             RM: 3/26/1865

Capture of flag at Waynesboro Va. 3/2/1865

George Ladd : Pvt. Co. H 22nd NY Cavalry

B: Carmillus (Camillus) NY    ES: Carmillus (Camillus) Onondaga County NY       RM: 3/26/1865

Captured a standard bearer, his flag, horse and equipment at Waynesboro Va. 3/2/1865

William Laing : Sgt. Co F 158th NY Infantry

B: Hempstead NY      ES: NY NY    RM: 4/6/1865

Was among the first to scale the parapet at Chapins Farm Va. 9/29/1864

J.C.  Julius Langbein : Musician Co B 9th NY Infantry

B: 9/29/1846 Germany            ES: NY           RM: 1/7/1895

 A drummer boy, 15 years old, he volunteered and , under heavy fire, went to the aid of a wounded officer, procured medical assistance for him and aided in carrying him to a place of safety at Camden NC 4/19/1862

Benjamin Levy : Pvt. Co. B 1st NY Infantry

B: NY NY      ES: unknown  RM: 3/1/1865

This soldier, a drummer boy, took the gun of a sick comrade, went into the fight and, when the color bearers were shot down, carried the color and saved them from capture at Glendale Va. 6/30/1862

Adolphe Libalre : Capt. Co E. 9th NY Infantry

B: unknown    ES: NY NY    RM: 4/2/1898

  In the advance on the enemy and after his color bearer and entire color guard of 8 men had been shot down, this officer seized the  regimental flag and with conspicuous gallantry carried it to the extreme front, urging the line forward at Antietam Md. 9/17/1862

Joseph Lonsway: Pvt. Co. D 20th NY Cavalry

B: Clayton NY            ES: unknown  RM: unknown

    Volunteered to swim Black water river to get a large flat used as a ferry on the other side; succeeded in getting the boat safely across, making it possible for a detachment to cross the river and take possession of the enemy’s breastworks at Murfees station Va. 10/16/1864

Andrew J. Lorish : Com. Sgt. 19th NY Cavalry/1st NY Dragoons

B: 11/8/1832 Dansville Steuben NY  ES: unknown  RM: 9/27/1864

 Amid the enemy, he grabbed the flag from the color bearer who then called for help.  When the bearer’s comrades were readying their rifles, he dashed directly at them, securing their disarming.  As he rode away, the confederates picked up their guns, firing at the Captor of their flag at Winchester Va. 9/19/1864

William Ludgate  : Capt. Co. G 59th NY Veteran Infantry

B: England      ES: NY NY    RM: 8/10/1889

 Gallantry and promptness in rallying his men and advancing with a small detachment to save a bridge about to be fired by the enemy at Farmville Va. 4/7/1865

Franklin W. Lutes : Cpl. Co D 111th NY Infantry

B: Oneida County NY            ES: unknown  RM: 4/3/1865

Capture of flag of 41st Alabama Infantry together with the color bearer and one of the color guard.

Joel H. Lyman  : Quarter Master Sarg. Co. B 9th NY Cavalry

B: Cattaraugus NY     ES: East Randolph NY           RM: 8/20/1894

   In an attempt to capture the confederate flag he captured one of the enemy’s officers and brought him within the lines at Winchester Va. 9/19/1864

 Michael Madden  : Pvt. Co K. 42nd NY Infantry

B: 9/28/1841 Ireland   ES: NY NY    RM: 3/22/1898

     Assisted a wounded comrade to the river bank and , under heavy fire of the enemy, swam with him across a branch of the Potomac to union lines at Masons Island Md. 9/3/1861

James Madison  (Real Name James Congdon) :Sgt. Co. E 8th NY Cavalry

B: Niagara NY            ES: Fairport NY          RM: 3/26/1865

Recapture of General Crook’s headquarters flag at Waynesboro Va. 3/2/1865

Harry J. Mandy  : 1st Sgt. Co B 4th NY Cavalry

B: England      ES: NY NY    RM: 8/26/1864

 Capture of flag of 3rd Virginia Infantry at Fort Royal Va. 8/15/1864

Albert Marsh  : Sgt. Co B 64th NY Infantry

B: Cattaraugus Country NY   ES: Randolph NY       RM: 12/1/1864

Capture of flag at Spotsylvania Va. 5/12/1864

Patrick H. McEnroe  :  Sgt. Co. D 6th NY Cavalry

B: Ireland        ES: NY           RM:9/27/1864

 Capture of colors of 36th Virginia Infantry at Winchester Va. 9/19/1864 

Edward McGinn  :Pvt. Co. F 54th Ohio Infantry

B: NY NY      ES: unknown  RM:6/28/1894

 Galantry in the charge of the “volunteer storming party” at Vicksburg Miss. 5/22/1863

Charles W. McKay  :Sgt. Co. G 154th NY Infantry

B: Mansfield NY        ES: Allegheny Cattaraugus county NY          RM: 4/13/1894

Voluntarily risked his life in rescuing, under fire of the enemy, a wounded comrade who was lying between the lines at Dug Gap Ga. 5/8/1864

John P. McVeane  :Cpl. Co. D 49th NY Infantry

B:Canada        ES: Buffalo NY          RM:9/21/1870 awarded posthumously

Shot a confederate color bearer and seized the flag; also approached, alone, a barn between the lines and demanded and received the surrender of a number of enemy therein at Fredericksburg Heights Va. 5/4/1863

George E. Meach  :Farrier Co I NY Cavalry

B: NY ES: unknown  RM: 9/27/1864

Capture of flag at Winchester Va. 9/18/1864

Thomas Meager: 1st Sgt. Co. G 158th NY Infantry

B: Scotland     ES: Brooklyn NY       RM: 4/6/1865

   Led a section of men on the enemy’s works, received a wound while scaling a parapet at Chapins farm Va. 9/29/1864

George Merrill  : Pvt. Co. I 142nd NY Infantry

B: Queensbury NY     ES: unknown  RM: 12/28/1914

 Voluntarily advanced with the head of the column and cut down the palisading at Fort Fisher NC 1/15/1865

John G. Merritt  : Sgt. Co. K 1st Minn. Infantry

B: NY ES: unknown  RM: 4/1/1880

 Gallantry in action; was wounded while capturing flag in advance of his regiment at Bull Run Va. 7/21/1861

Henry C. Meyer  : Capt. Co. D 24th NY Cavalry

B: Hamburg NY         ES: Dobbs Ferry NY  RM: 3/29/1899

  During an assault and in the face of a heavy fire, rendered heroic assistance to a wounded and helpless officer, thereby saving his life and in the performance of this gallant act, received severe wounds at Petersburg Va. 6/17/1864

Frank Miller : Pvt. Co. M 2nd NY Cavalry

B; NY ES: Jamaica NY          RM: 4/24/1865

 Capture of flag of 25th battalion Va. Infantry, was taken prisoner but successfully retained his trophy until recaptured at Sailors creek Va. 4/6/1865

John Miller  :Pvt. Co H 8th NY Cavalry

B: Germany     ES: Rochester NY      RM: 3/26/1865

 Capture of flag at Waynesboro Va. 3/2/1865

Frank W. Mills  :Sgt. Co C 1st NY Mounted rifles

B: Middletown NY    ES: Unknown RM: 4/2/1898

  While scouting, this soldier, in command of an advance of but 3 or 4 men, came upon the enemy and charged them without orders, the rest of the troops following, the whole force of the enemy, 120 men, being captured at Sandy Cross Road NC 9/4/1862

John H. Moffitt  :Corp. Co C 16th NY Infantry

B:1/8/1843 Chazy Clinton County NY          ES: Plattsburg NY      RM: 3/3/1891

  Voluntarily took up the regimental colors after several color bearers had been shot down and carried them until he was also wounded at Gaines Mill Va. 6/27/1862

Charles E. Morse : Sgt. Co I 62nd NY Infantry

B: France         ES: NY           RM: 1/14/1890

    Voluntarily rushed back into the enemy’s lines, took the colors from the color sergeant who was mortally wounded, and, although he was himself wounded, carried them through the fight at Wilderness Va. 5/5/1864

Michael C. Murphy :Lt. Col. 170th NY Infantry

B: Ireland        ES: NY NY    RM: 1/15/1897

   This officer, commanding the regiment, kept it on the field exposed to the fire of the enemy for 3 hours without being able to fire one shot in return because of the ammunition being exhausted, at North Anna river Va. 5/24/1864

Thomas Murphy :Cpl. Co. K 158th NY Infantry

B: NY NY      ES: NY NY    RM: 10/15/1864

   Capture of flag at Chapin’s farm Va. 9/30/1864

Zachariah C. Neahr  :Pvt. Co. K 142nd NY Infantry

B: Canajoharie NY     ES: unknown  RM: 9/11/1890

  Voluntarily advanced with the head of the column and cut down the palisading at Fort Fisher NC 1/16/1865

William H. Newman  : Lt. Co. B 86th NY Infantry

B: Orange county NY     ES: unknown          RM: 5/10/1865

   Capture of flag near Amelia Springs Va. 4/6/1865

Robert Niven : 2nd Lt. Co. H 8th NY Cavalry

B: 12/18/1833             ES: Rochester NY      RM: 3/26/1865

   Capture of flag at Waynesboro Va. 3/2/1865

John R. Norton : Lt. Co M 1st NY Cavalry

B: Ontario County NY           ES: unknown  RM: 5/3/1865

    Capture of flag at Sailors Creek Va. 4/6/12865

Llewellyn P. Norton   : Sgt. Co L 10th NY Cavalry

B: Scott NY    ES: Cortland NY        RM: 7/3/1865

   Charged the enemy and, with the assistance of Corporal Bringle, Captured a field piece with 2 prisoners at Sailors creek Va. 4/6/1865

 Lee Nutting : Capt. Co C 61st NY Infantry

B: Orange county NY        ES: unknown      RM: 8/21/1893
  Led the regiment in a charge at a critical moment under a murderous fire until he fell desperately wounded


New York State Medal of Honor recipients-US Civil War- Part 3

5/6/2014

 
Francis Irsch:  Capt. Co. D 45th NY Infantry

B: unknown       ES:  NY NY      RM : 5/27/1892

Gallantry in flanking the enemy and capturing a number of prisoners,

and in holding a part of the town against heavy odds while the army was rallying on cemetery hill at Gettysburg PA. 7/1/1863

Eugene P. Jacobson:  Sgt. Maj. 74th NY Infantry

B: unknown    ES: NY NY    RM: 5/27/1892

Bravery in conducting a scouting party in front of the enemy at Chancellorsville Va. 5/2/1863

Walter Jamieson:  1st Sgt. 139th NY Infantry

B: France         ES: NY           RM: 4/5/1898

Voluntarily went between the lines under a heavy fire at Petersburg Va. to the assistance of a wounded and helpless officer, whom he carried within the Union lines.  At Fort Harrison Va. Seized the regimental color, the color bearer and guard having been shot down, and, rushing forward, planted it upon the fort in full view of the entire Brigade at Petersburg Va. 7/30/1864 & Fort Harrison Va. 9/29/1864.

Follett Johnson : Cpl. 60th NY Infantry

B: St. Lawrence NY   ES: Unknown RM: 4/6/1892

Voluntarily exposed himself to the fire of a confederate sharp shooter, thus drawing fire upon himself and enabling his comrade to shoot the sharpshooter at New Hope Church Ga. 5/27/1864

Wallace W. Johnson :  Sgt. Co. G 6thg Pa. reserves

B: Newfield NY         ES: Waverly NY         RM: 8/8/1900

With 5 other volunteers, gallantly charged on a number of the enemy’s sharpshooters concealed in a log home, captured them, and brought them within Union lines at Gettysburg Pa. 7/2/1863

William Jones : 1st Sgt. 73rd. NY Infantry

B: Ireland        ES: NY           RM: 12/1/1864

Capture of flag of 65th Va. Infantry at Spotsylvania Va. 5/12/1864

Peter Kappesser : Pvt. 149th NY Infantry

B: Germany     ES: Syracuse NY        RM: unknown

 At Lookout mountain Tenn. captured a confederate flag, Bragg’s army on 11/24/1863

August Kauss (Kautz): Corp. Co. H. 15th NY Heavy Artillery

B: Germany     ES: NY NY    RM: 5/10/1865

  Capture of battle flag at 5 Forks Va. 4/1/1865

Joseph Keele : Sgt. Major 182nd. NY Infantry

B: Ireland        ES: Staten Island NY RM: 10/25/1867

 Voluntarily and at risk of his own life, carried orders to the Brigade Commander, which resulted in saving the works his regiment was defending at North Anna river Va. 5/23/1864

Daniel Kelly : Sgt. Co. G 8th NY Cavalry

B: Groveland NY       ES: Unknown             RM: 3/26/1865

 Capture of flag at Waynesboro Va. 3/2/1865

Thomas Kelly: Pvt. Co. A 6th NY Cavalry

B: Ireland        ES: unknown  RM      8/26/1864

Capture of flag at Fort Royal Va. 8/16/1864

John S. Kenyon :       Sgt. Co. D 3rd NY Cavalry

B: 5/5/1843 Grosvenor’s Schoharie county NY         ES: Schenevus            NY      RM: Unknown

 Voluntarily left a retiring column, returned in face of the enemy’s fire, helped a wounded man upon a horse and so enabled him to escape capture or death at Trenton NC 5/15/1862

 Samuel P. Kenyon : Pvt. Co. B  24th NY Cavalry

B: Ira NY        ES: Oriskany Falls NY           RM: 5/3/1865

Capture of battle flag at Sailors Creek Va. 4/6/1865

John Keough : Cpl. Co.E. 67th Pa Infantry

B: Ireland        ES: Albany NY           RM: 5/3/1868

 Capture of battle flag of 50th Georgia Infantry At Sailors Creek Va. 4/6/1865

John Kiggins : Sgt. 149th NY Infantry

B:Syracuse NY           ES:Syracuse NY         RM: 1/12/1892

Waved the colors to save the lives of the men who were being fired upon by their own batteries, and thereby drew upon himself a concentrated fire from the enemy at Lookout mountain Tenn. 11/24/1863

Horatio C. King  : Maj. and quartermaster US Volunteers

B: 12/22/1837 Portland Main             ES: Brooklyn              RM: 9/23/1897

While serving as a volunteer aide, carried orders to the reserve brigade and participated with it in the char ge which repulsed the enemy at Dinwiddie courthouse Va. 3/31/1865

Rufus King Jr.  : 1st Lt. 4th US Artillery

B:NY              ES:NY                        RM:4/2/1898

This officer, when his captain was wounded, succeeded to the command of two batteries while engaged against a superior force of the enemy and fought his guns of the enemy and fought his guns most gallantly until compelled to retire most gallantly until compelled to retire at White oak swamp bridge Va. 6/30/1862

Harry Kline  :Pvt. Co. E 40th NY Infantry

B: Germany                 ES: Syracuse NY        RM: 5/10/1865

Captured battle flag at Sailors Creek Va. 4/6/1865

Edward M. Knox  : 2nd Lt. 15th NY Battery

B: NY NY                  ES: NY NY                RM: 10/18/1892

Held his ground with the battery after the other batteries had fallen back, until compelled to draw his piece off by hand.  He was severely wounded at Gettysburg Pa. 7/2/1863.

                                          Spot light on Dr. Mary E. Walker- Civil War Surgeon

5/4/2014

 
          In honor of Mother's day which is fast upon us, and combining our monthly theme of medal of honor recipients in honor of Memorial Day,  I have selected an interesting  and exemplary woman to spotlight.    The following can be found at   http://www.northnet.org/stlawrenceaauw/walker.htm

Mary Edwards Walker, one of the nation's 1.8 million women veterans, was the only one to earn the Congressional Medal of Honor, for her service during the Civil War. She, along with thousands of other women, were honored in the newly-dedicated Women in Military Service for America Memorial in October 1997.

Controversy surrounded Mary Edwards Walker throughout her life. She was born on November 26, 1832 in the Town of Oswego, New York, into an abolitionist family. Her birthplace on the Bunker Hill Road is marked with a historical marker. Her father, a country doctor, was a free thinking participant in many of the reform movements that thrived in upstate New York in the mid 1800s. He believed strongly in education and equality for his five daughters Mary, Aurora, Luna, Vesta, and Cynthia (there was one son, Alvah). He also believed they were hampered by the tight-fitting women's clothing of the day.

His daughter, Mary, became an early enthusiast for Women's Rights, and passionately espoused the issue of dress reform. The most famous proponent of dress reform was Amelia Bloomer, a native of Homer, New York, whose defended a colleague's right to wear "Turkish pantaloons" in her Ladies' Temperance Newspaper, the Lily. "Bloomers," as they became known, did achieve some popular acceptance towards the end of the 19th century as women took up the new sport of bicycling. Mary Edwards Walker discarded the unusual restrictive women's clothing of the day. Later in her life she donned full men's evening dress to lecture on Women's Rights.

In June 1855 Mary, the only woman in her class, joined the tiny number of women doctors in the nation when she graduated from the eclectic Syracuse Medical College, the nation's first medical school and one which accepted women and men on an equal basis. She gratuated at age 21 after three 13-week semesters of medical training which she paid $55 each for.

In 1856 she married another physician, Albert Miller, wearing trousers and a man's coat and kept her own name. Together they set up a medical practice in Rome, NY, but the public was not ready to accept a woman physician, and their practice floundered. They were divorced 13 years later.

When war broke out, she came to Washington and tried to join the Union Army. Denied a commission as a medical officer, she volunteered anyway, serving as an acting assistant surgeon -- the first female surgeon in the US Army. As an unpaid volunteer, she worked in the US Patent Office Hospital in Washington. Later, she worked as a field surgeon near the Union front lines for almost two years (including Fredericksburg and in Chattanooga after the Battle of Chickamauga).

In September 1863, Walker was finally appointed assistant surgeon in the Army of the Cumberland for which she made herself a slightly modified officer's uniform to wear, in response to the demands of traveling with the soldiers and working in field hospitals. She was then appointed assistant surgeon of the 52nd Ohio Infantry. During this assignment it is generally accepted that she also served as a spy. She continually crossed Confederate lines to treat civilians. She was taken prisoner in 1864 by Confederate troops and imprisoned in Richmond for four months until she was exchanged, with two dozen other Union doctors, for 17 Confederate surgeons.

She was released back to the 52nd Ohio as a contract surgeon, but spent the rest of the war practicing at a Louisville female prison and an orphan's asylum in Tennessee. She was paid $766.16 for her wartime service. Afterward, she got a monthly pension of $8.50, later raised to $20, but still less than some widows' pensions.

On November 11, 1865, President Johnson signed a bill to present Dr. Mary Edwards Walker with the Congressional Medal of Honor for Meritorious Service, in order to recognize her contributions to the war effort without awarding her an army commission. She was the only woman ever to receive the Medal of Honor, her country's highest military award.

In 1917 her Congressional Medal, along with the medals of 910 others was taken away when Congress revised the Medal of Honor standards to include only “actual combat with an enemy” She refused to give back her Medal of Honor, wearing it every day until her death in 1919. A relative told the New York Times: "Dr. Mary lost the medal simply because she was a hundred years ahead of her time and no one could stomach it." An Army board reinstated Walker's medal posthumously in 1977, citing her "distinguished gallantry, self-sacrifice, patriotism, dedication and unflinching loyalty to her country, despite the apparent discrimination because of her sex."

After the war, Mary Edwards Walker became a writer and lecturer, touring here and abroad on women's rights, dress reform, health and temperance issues. Tobacco, she said, resulted in paralysis and insanity. Women's clothing, she said, was immodest and inconvenient. She was elected president of the National Dress Reform Association in 1866. Walker prided herself by being arrested numerous times for wearing full male dress, including wing collar, bow tie, and top hat.

She was also something of an inventor, coming up with the idea of using a return postcard for registered mail.

She wrote extensively, including a combination biography and commentary called Hit, a combination autobiography and commentary on divorce in 1871, and a second book, Unmasked, or the Science of Immortality, about infidelity in 1878.

In 1872 in Oswego, Mary E. Walker attempted to vote, one of many women who made the attempt over the years on the road to full suffrage.

In 1890, Mary declared herself a candidate for Congress in Oswego. The next year, she campaigned for a U.S. Senate seat and, the following year, paid her way to the Democratic National Convention.

She died in the Town of Oswego on February 21, 1919 and is buried in the Rural Cemetery on the Cemetery Road. Ironically, the 19th Amendment giving owmen the vote was ratified that same year.

A 20¢ stamp honoring Dr. Mary Walker was issued in Oswego, NY on June 10, 1982. The stamp commemorates the first woman to have been awarded the Congressional Medal of Honor and the second woman to graduate from a medical school in the United States.

In 2000, Mary Edwards Walker was inducted into the Women’s Hall of Fame at Seneca Falls, New York.



In the News: Statue of Oswego County woman who served as a surgeon in Civil War ready for casting (Feb. 17, 2011)

Special thanks to Theresa A. Cooper, President of the Town of Oswego Historical Society and Town Clerk for supplying additional information for this Profile.



The full text of her entry at the U.S. Army Center of Military History of Medal of Honor Citations follows:

WALKER, DR. MARY E.Rank and organization: Contract Acting Assistant Surgeon (civilian), U. S. Army. Places and dates: Battle of Bull Run, July 21, 1861; Patent Office Hospital, Washington, D.C., October 1861; Chattanooga, Tenn., following Battle of Chickomauga, September 1863; Prisoner of War, April 10, 1864_August 12, 1864, Richmond, Va.; Battle of Atlanta, September 1864. Entered service at: Louisville, Ky. Born: 26 November 1832, Oswego County, N.Y.

Citation: Whereas it appears from official reports that Dr. Mary E. Walker, a graduate of medicine, "has rendered valuable service to the Government. and her efforts have been earnest and llntirin~ in a variety of ways," and that she was assigned to duty and served as an assistant surgeon in charge of female prisoners at Louisville, Ky., upon the recommendation of Major_Generals Sherman and Thomas, and faithfully served as contract surgeon in the service of the United States, and has devoted herself with much patriotic zeal to the sick and wounded soliders, both in the field and hospitals, to the detriment of her own health, and has also endured hardships as a prisoner of war four months in a Southern prison while acting as contract surgeon; and

Whereas by reason of her not being a commissioned officer in the military service, a brevet or honorary rank cannot, under existing laws, be conferred upon her; and

Whereas in the opinion of the President an honorable recognition of her services and sufferings should be made:

It is ordered, That a testimonial thereof shall be hereby made and given to the said Dr. Mary E. Walker, and that the usual medal of honor for meritorious services be given her.

Given under my hand in the city of Washington, D.C., this 11th day of November, A.D. 1865.

(Medal rescinded 1917 along with 910 others, restored by President Carter 10 June 1977.)



May 30, 1868:First Official Memorial Day Observance

5/3/2014

 
May 30, 1868:
First Official Memorial Day ObservanceMay 1, 2014 by Trevor | 3 Comments



In the years immediately following the Civil War, one way Americans sought to remember the multitudes of war dead was by holding “decoration days”—days on which they would gather to decorate the graves of those who died in the conflict. Although many local groups and communities had their own decoration days, including well-known ones in Waterloo (New York) and Charleston (South Carolina), the first official observance of what would eventually become Memorial Day took place on May 30, 1868.

This Decoration Day (it wouldn’t officially be called Memorial Day until 1967) was coordinated by John A. Logan, a former Union general and at the time commander-in-chief of the Grand Army of the Republic, a Union veteran’s association. In his General Order Number 11, dated May 5, 1868, he designated May 30 “for the purpose of strewing with flowers or otherwise decorating the graves of comrades who died in defense of their country during the late rebellion.” In addition to the decoration of graves, Decoration Day was also to be observed with “fitting services and testimonials of respect as circumstances may permit,” according to Logan.

Veterans and their loved ones, as well as widows, orphans, and other bereaved, responded to Logan’s call with alacrity. That year, 183 cemeteries in 27 states celebrated Decoration Day, and observance only grew in the years that followed. By 1890, all the northern states had made it an official state holiday.

The South didn’t celebrate Logan’s Decoration Day until after World War I, when the holiday shifted from honoring Civil War dead to honoring the American dead of all wars. Instead, Southerners memorialized the Confederate dead locally on days throughout spring and early summer, often on important dates such as Joseph Johnston’s surrender, Stonewall Jackson’s death, or Jefferson Davis’ birthday.

Memorial Day, in the form we know it today, came about in 1967, when Decoration Day was renamed Memorial Day to better reflect contemporary usage. Then, the following year, it was permanently moved from May 30 to the last Monday in May to create a three-day weekend.

This Memorial Day, find your military ancestors on Fold3 and memorialize them by creating or expanding a page for them on the Honor Wall.reposted from Fold 3, an invaluable web site for people looking for their military ancestors.http://www.fold3.com

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