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Charles Henry Crane
Charles H. Crane.png
Born (1825-07-19)July 19, 1825
Newport, Rhode Island
Died October 10, 1883(1883-10-10) (aged 58)
Washington, D.C.
Allegiance United StatesUnited States of America
Union
Service/branch United States Army
Union Army
Years of service 1848–1883
Rank Union Army brigadier general rank insignia.svg Brigadier general
Commands held Surgeon General of the Army
Battles/wars Mexican-American War
American Civil War

Charles Henry Crane was an important American doctor who served in the United States Army. He was born on July 19, 1825, and passed away on October 10, 1883. He became the 13th Surgeon General of the United States Army, which is the top doctor for the entire U.S. Army. His father was Colonel Ichabod B. Crane.

Early Life and Education

Charles Henry Crane was a very smart student. He went to Yale College and earned his first degree in 1844. After that, he studied medicine at Harvard Medical School. He received his medical degree (M.D.) in 1847.

In 1848, Charles Crane decided to join the army. He officially became part of the military on February 14, 1848.

Serving During Wartime

Dr. Crane served in two major conflicts. He was a doctor during the Mexican–American War. Later, he also served during the American Civil War. His medical skills were very important during these times.

A Doctor for President Lincoln

In April 1865, a very sad event happened. President Abraham Lincoln was shot. Dr. Charles Crane was one of the doctors who tried to help President Lincoln. He was there during the President's final moments.

Rising Through the Ranks

After the Civil War, Dr. Crane continued to serve the country. On April 9, 1866, President Andrew Johnson honored him. He was nominated to be an honorary brigadier general in the army. The United States Senate agreed to this promotion on May 4, 1866.

Later that year, on July 29, 1866, Dr. Crane received another important role. The U.S. Senate confirmed him as the Assistant Surgeon General of the Army. He worked under the main Surgeon General, Joseph K. Barnes.

Becoming Surgeon General

Dr. Crane's hard work and dedication led him to the highest medical position in the army. When the previous Surgeon General left the role, Dr. Crane stepped in as the Acting Surgeon General.

On August 7, 1882, President Chester A. Arthur officially nominated him for the permanent position. The United States Senate confirmed his nomination. Two days later, on August 9, 1882, Charles Henry Crane formally became the Surgeon General of the Army.

He served in this important role until his death on October 10, 1883. After his passing, Robert Murray took over as the new Surgeon General.

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