Douglas Hapeman facts for kids
Douglas Hapeman (1839–1905) was a brave soldier who served as a Lieutenant Colonel in the 104th Illinois Infantry. He fought during the American Civil War, a very important time in American history. For his amazing courage, he was given the highest military award, the Medal of Honor.
Douglas Hapeman was born on January 15, 1839, in a place called Ephratah, New York. Later, he moved to Illinois. His actions during the war made him a hero.
Contents
A Hero in the Civil War
The American Civil War was a big conflict in the United States from 1861 to 1865. It was fought between the Northern states (the Union) and the Southern states (the Confederacy). Douglas Hapeman fought for the Union side.
The Medal of Honor
The Medal of Honor is the most important award a military person can receive in the United States. It is given for extreme bravery and courage during battle. Douglas Hapeman earned this special medal for what he did on July 20, 1864.
The Battle of Peachtree Creek
This important event happened during the Battle of Peachtree Creek in Georgia. The battle was a tough fight. Hapeman's unit was under a very strong attack. Many soldiers might have panicked, but not Douglas Hapeman.
He showed incredible leadership and bravery. He quickly gathered his soldiers who were scattered. He helped them get back into their fighting positions. Because of his "conspicuous coolness and bravery," his unit was able to fight back. They successfully stopped the enemy's attack.
Douglas Hapeman was officially given his Medal of Honor on April 5, 1898. This was many years after the war ended.
Life After the War
After the Civil War, Douglas Hapeman returned home. He married Ella Thomas Hapeman (1849-1907). They had two children together. Their daughter was Mary T Hapeman Hoffman (1869-1940). Their son was William Thomas Hapeman (1873-1949).
Douglas Hapeman passed away on June 3, 1905. He died in Ottawa, Illinois. He is buried in the Ottawa Avenue Cemetery. His story reminds us of the bravery shown by many during the Civil War.