Charles Veale facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Charles Veale
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| Born | 1838 Portsmouth, Virginia |
| Died | July 27, 1872 (aged 33–34) |
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| Rank | Private |
| Unit | 4th Regiment United States Colored Infantry |
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| Awards | Medal of Honor |
Charles Veale was a brave African American soldier who fought for the Union Army during the American Civil War. He received America's highest award for military bravery, the Medal of Honor, for his heroic actions at the Battle of Chaffin's Farm.
Charles Veale's Story
Charles Veale joined the Union Army in Portsmouth, Virginia. He started as a private in Company D of the 4th Regiment United States Colored Infantry. This was a special unit made up of African American soldiers. He was promoted to corporal in August 1863. Before joining the army, he worked as a fireman.
Bravery at Chaffin's Farm
On September 29, 1864, Charles Veale's unit was part of a big attack. This attack happened during the Battle of Chaffin's Farm. The battle took place near Richmond, Virginia, which was the capital of the Confederate States.
During the battle, a soldier named Sergeant Alfred B. Hilton was carrying two important flags. One of these flags had been picked up from another wounded soldier. When Sergeant Hilton himself was wounded, Charles Veale and another soldier, Sergeant Major Christian Fleetwood, quickly grabbed the flags. They did this to stop the flags from touching the ground.
Charles Veale then carried the blue regimental flag. He kept fighting bravely even though there was heavy enemy fire all around him. General Benjamin Butler saw how brave Charles Veale was. He wanted to promote Veale to sergeant right away. Charles Veale was officially promoted on November 12, 1864.
Receiving the Medal of Honor
For their amazing bravery during the battle, Charles Veale, Christian Fleetwood, and Alfred Hilton each received the Medal of Honor. They were given this special award about six months later, on April 6, 1865. Charles Veale also received another medal for his courage, called the Butler Medal. This medal was specifically given to African American troops for their valor.
Charles Veale was laid to rest in Hampton National Cemetery in Hampton, Virginia.
