George Columbus Barnhardt facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
George Barnhardt
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George C. Barnhardt as brigadier general in Prüm 1919
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| Born | December 28, 1868 Gold Hill, North Carolina |
| Died | December 10, 1930 (aged 61) |
| Service/ |
United States Army |
| Rank | Brigadier general |
| Battles/wars | Spanish–American War, China Relief Expedition, World War I |
George Columbus Barnhardt (born December 28, 1868 – died December 10, 1930) was an important American military leader. He reached the high rank of Brigadier general and served during a very important time in history, including World War I.
Contents
Early Life and Education
George Barnhardt was born in a place called Gold Hill, North Carolina. When he was a young man, he went to a special school for future military officers. This school is the United States Military Academy, often called West Point. He graduated from West Point in 1892. He was one of the top students in his class.
A Career in the Military
After finishing West Point, George Barnhardt became a second lieutenant. This is a starting officer rank in the army. He joined the Sixth Cavalry, which is a unit that used to ride horses. He served at a place called Fort McKinney in New York for about two years.
Serving in Different Wars
Barnhardt was involved in several major conflicts during his career.
During the Spanish–American War, he led a group of cavalry soldiers. They fought in a campaign in Santiago. After this war, he spent two years at Fort Leavenworth in Kansas.
Later, he took part in the China Relief Expedition. This was a mission to help people in China. After that, he spent four years serving in the Philippines.
Important Commands and Duties
From 1907 to 1909, Barnhardt was stationed in Cuba. Then, from 1909 to 1912, he was an adjutant for the 15th Cavalry. An adjutant is an officer who helps a commanding officer with administrative tasks.
From 1913 to 1916, he worked on General Staff duty. This means he helped plan and organize army operations. During this time, he also served on the Mexican border. In 1916, he also worked with the Quartermaster Corps, which handles supplies for the army.
When World War I began, Barnhardt commanded the 329th Infantry at Camp Sherman in Ohio. He then went to France with the American Expeditionary Force. This was the name for the American soldiers who fought in Europe during World War I.
On August 1, 1918, he was promoted to Brigadier general. This is a very high rank. He was put in charge of the 178th Infantry Brigade in France and Germany.
After returning to the United States in 1921, Barnhardt continued to serve. From 1921 to 1925, he was a General Staff colonel. From 1925 to 1927, he commanded the Sixth Cavalry. He also led the Military District of Washington for a few months in 1927. His last assignment was commanding the 22d Infantry Brigade in Hawaii.
Awards and Recognition
George Barnhardt received several important awards for his service. The United States gave him the Distinguished Service Medal. This award is given to soldiers who show great service and achievement.
He also received awards from France. These included the Croix de Guerre with palm and the Legion of Honor. These are very prestigious awards given for bravery and outstanding service.
Later Life and Legacy
George Columbus Barnhardt passed away on December 10, 1930, at the age of sixty-one. He is remembered as a dedicated military leader who served his country in many important roles and conflicts.
