Edward Settle Godfrey facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Edward Settle Godfrey
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| Born | October 9, 1843 Kalida, Ohio |
| Died | April 1, 1932 (aged 88) Cookstown, New Jersey |
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| Allegiance | United States of America |
| Service/ |
United States Army |
| Years of service | 1861, 1867–1907 |
| Rank |  Brigadier General |
| Unit | 21st Ohio Infantry Regiment 7th U.S. Cavalry Regiment |
| Commands held | 9th US Cavalry Regiment Department of the Missouri |
| Battles/wars | American Civil War Indian Wars Spanish–American War Philippine–American War |
| Awards | Medal of Honor |
Edward Settle Godfrey (born October 9, 1843 – died April 1, 1932) was a brave soldier in the United States Army. He became a Brigadier General. He earned the Medal of Honor, which is a very special award. He received it for his strong leadership during the Indian Wars.
Growing Up and School
Godfrey was born on October 9, 1843, in Ottawa, Ohio. When the American Civil War began, he joined the Union Army. He served as a private in the 21st Ohio Infantry from April to August 1861.
Two years later, he was accepted into the United States Military Academy. This is a famous military school often called West Point. He finished his studies and graduated in 1867.
A Soldier's Life
After graduating, Edward Godfrey joined the 7th U.S. Cavalry Regiment. As a lieutenant, he was one of the soldiers who survived the famous Battle of the Little Bighorn. He later wrote about his experiences in this battle. His writings helped many people understand what happened and how General Custer led his troops.
Godfrey was badly hurt during the Battle of Bear Paw Mountain. This battle was against Chief Joseph and the Nez Perce Indians on September 30, 1877. Even though he was wounded, Godfrey kept leading his men. For his brave actions in this battle, he received the Medal of Honor in 1894.
He was promoted to major on February 27, 1890. Godfrey also served in Cuba in 1898 during the Spanish–American War. Later, he served overseas in the Philippine–American War from 1899 to 1902. He retired from the army on October 9, 1907. At that time, he held the rank of Brigadier General.
Years later, Godfrey took part in a very important ceremony. He led two groups of Medal of Honor winners. This was for the burial of the Unknown Soldier from World War I. The ceremony took place in Arlington, Virginia.
Godfrey passed away on April 1, 1932. He died at his home in Cookstown, New Jersey. He is buried at Arlington National Cemetery with his wife, Ida Emely Godfrey.
Family Life
Edward Godfrey's first wife died before the year 1900. In 1932, his children who were still alive were Mary Godfrey and E.S. Godfrey, Jr.. His son, E.S. Godfrey, Jr., became a doctor. On October 6, 1892, Edward married his second wife, Ida D. Emely Godfrey (1856–1941).
