George D. Wise (general) facts for kids

George Douglas Wise (born December 31, 1816 – died March 18, 1881) was an officer in the Union Army during the American Civil War. He played an important role in managing supplies and transportation for the army.

Early Life and Pre-War Work

George D. Wise was born on December 31, 1816, in Brooklyn, New York. Before the war, he worked for the United States Coast Survey. This was a government team that mapped the coastlines. He was also a second cousin to Henry A. Wise, who was a politician and a general for the Confederate side during the war.

Joining the Union Army

When the Civil War began, George D. Wise joined the Union Army. On September 21, 1861, he became a captain. His job was an assistant quartermaster. A quartermaster is someone who makes sure the army has all the supplies it needs, like food, clothing, and equipment.

Important Roles and Promotions

For several years, Captain Wise served with the Western Gunboat Flotilla. This was a group of armed boats that operated on the rivers in the western part of the United States. In 1864, he was given a very important job. He became the Chief of the Ocean and Lake Transportation Division. This meant he was in charge of moving army supplies and troops by water, both on oceans and large lakes. On August 2, 1864, he was promoted to the rank of colonel.

Honorary Ranks and Retirement

Colonel Wise received several special honorary ranks, called "brevet" grades. These ranks recognized his brave and important service. He was given the brevet ranks of major, lieutenant colonel, and colonel. All of these honorary ranks were effective starting March 13, 1865.

On January 13, 1866, President Andrew Johnson nominated him for another brevet rank. This time, it was brevet brigadier general of volunteers. The United States Senate approved this on March 12, 1866. Wise officially left the volunteer army on October 1, 1867.

Later Life and Passing

George D. Wise passed away on March 18, 1881, in Binghamton, New York. He was buried in Green Mount Cemetery in Baltimore, Maryland.

See also

• List of American Civil War brevet generals (Union)