August Kauss facts for kids

Quick facts for kids August Kauss
Born	November 6, 1843 Germany
Died	April 27, 1913 New York
Buried	Hurley, New York
Allegiance	United States of America
Service/branch	United States Army
Years of service	1861 - 1865
Rank	Corporal
Unit	Company H, 15th New York Heavy Artillery
Battles/wars	Battle of Five Forks American Civil War
Awards	Medal of Honor

Corporal August Kauss (born November 6, 1843 – died April 27, 1913) was an American soldier. He fought bravely in the American Civil War, which was a major conflict in American history. Kauss received the Medal of Honor, the highest award for bravery a soldier can get in the United States. He earned this special award for his actions during a battle in 1865.

Who Was August Kauss?

August Kauss was born in Germany in 1843. When he was young, he moved to the United States. When the American Civil War began, he decided to join the Union Army to fight for his new country.

Joining the Fight

Kauss first joined the army in April 1861. He became part of the 8th New York Infantry from New York City. He served with this group for two years. After that, he joined another unit called the 15th New York Heavy Artillery in August 1863. He served with them for another two years until the war ended.

A Heroic Act: The Medal of Honor

August Kauss earned his Medal of Honor for an amazing act of bravery. This happened on April 1, 1865, during the Battle of Five Forks in Virginia. This battle was a very important one near the end of the Civil War. During the fight, Kauss bravely captured an enemy flag. Capturing an enemy flag was a very dangerous and important act in battle, showing great courage and helping to lower the enemy's morale. For his bravery, he was given the Medal of Honor on May 10, 1865.

Life After the War

After the war ended, August Kauss lived until 1913. He passed away on April 27, 1913, and was buried in Hurley, New York. His actions during the Civil War are remembered as a testament to his courage and dedication.