Elijah A. Briggs facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Elijah A. Briggs
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| Born | October 26, 1843 Salisbury, Connecticut |
| Died | March 10, 1922 (aged 78) Beacon, New York |
| Buried |
Fishkill Rural Cemetery
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| Allegiance |  United States of America |
| Service/ |
 United States Army |
| Rank | Sergeant |
| Unit |  2nd Regiment Connecticut Volunteer Heavy Artillery - Company B |
| Awards |  Medal of Honor |
Sergeant Elijah A. Briggs (born October 26, 1843 – died March 10, 1922) was a brave American soldier. He fought in the American Civil War, a big war in the United States. Briggs earned the country's highest award for bravery, the Medal of Honor. He received this special award for his actions in Petersburg, Virginia, on April 3, 1865. He was given the honor on May 10, 1865.
Contents
A Brave Soldier's Story
Elijah Briggs was born in Salisbury, Connecticut. He grew up in a town called Lime Rock, Connecticut. When he was 17 years old, he decided to join the army. He became part of the 2nd Connecticut Heavy Artillery on July 18, 1862.
Fighting in the War
During the war, Elijah Briggs faced many dangers. On June 12, 1864, he was hurt during the Battle of Cold Harbor. A gunshot hit him in the forehead. He was unable to fight for several weeks while he recovered.
Earning the Medal of Honor
Sergeant Briggs showed incredible courage. He was recognized for capturing a Confederate battle flag during the Siege of Petersburg. Capturing an enemy flag was a very brave act. It showed great courage and skill. He is also remembered for capturing another flag during the Battle of Sailor's Creek. This act of bravery earned him the Medal of Honor.
Life After the War
After the war ended, Elijah Briggs was honorably discharged from the army. This means he left the military with a good record. He went back to Lime Rock, Connecticut, for a while. Later, he moved to Beacon, New York.
On June 24, 1874, he married H. Elizabeth Montfort. They had one daughter together. Elijah Briggs was also a member of several groups in his community. These included the Grand Army of the Republic, which was for Civil War veterans. He was also part of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows and his local Methodist Episcopal Church.
Elijah Briggs passed away on March 10, 1922. He was buried at Fishkill Rural Cemetery in Fishkill, New York.
See also
