Charles Gould Morton facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Charles Gould Morton
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![]() Charles Morton, 29th Division, Nogent-le-Roi 1918
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Born | Cumberland, Maine |
January 15, 1861
Died | July 18, 1933 San Francisco, California |
(aged 72)
Buried | |
Allegiance | United States |
Service/ |
United States Army |
Years of service | 1883–1925 |
Rank | ![]() |
Commands held | 29th Infantry Division |
Battles/wars | World War I |
Awards | Croix de Guerre Distinguished Service Medal Commander of the Legion of Honor |
Spouse(s) | Ida Hastings Eleanor Moorhead Huff |
Charles Gould Morton (born January 15, 1861 – died July 18, 1933) was an important American military leader. He was a major general during World War I, a huge global conflict. He served in the United States Army for many years.
Early Life and Education
Charles Gould Morton was born in Cumberland, Maine, on January 15, 1861. His parents were Allen and Mary Morton.
He attended the United States Military Academy, often called West Point. This is a famous school for training army officers. He graduated from West Point in 1883.
Military Career
After graduating, Morton became an infantry officer. An infantry officer leads soldiers who fight on foot. He served in frontier areas until 1888.
From 1889 to 1890, Morton taught military science. He was a professor at the Florida Agricultural College. For most of his career, he served with the 6th Infantry Regiment.
During World War I, Morton was a key commander. He led the 29th Infantry Division. This division was made up of soldiers from Maryland, Virginia, and Washington D.C. After the war, he commanded the Ninth Corps Area. This was a large military region with its main office in San Francisco. He retired from the army in 1925.
Personal Life
Charles Morton married Ida Hastings on October 15, 1885. Sadly, Ida passed away in 1921. Morton later married Eleanor Moorhead Huff on June 14, 1922.
Awards and Honors
Morton received several important awards for his service.
- He earned the Distinguished Service Medal. This award is given for especially good service to the United States Army.
- He also received the Croix de Guerre. This is a French military award, and he received it with two palms, showing extra recognition.
- He was named a Commander of the Legion of Honor. This is another very high award from France.
Death and Legacy
Charles Gould Morton died on July 18, 1933, in San Francisco, California. He is buried at Arlington National Cemetery. This is a special cemetery for military heroes.
A transport ship was named in his honor: the USS General C. G. Morton (AP-138). This ship helped move troops and supplies during World War II and the Korean War.