George H. Wanton facts for kids

George Henry Wanton (born May 15, 1868 – died November 27, 1940) was a brave American soldier. He was a "Buffalo Soldier" in the United States Army and received the Medal of Honor. This is America's highest award for military bravery. He earned it for his actions during the Spanish–American War. Wanton and three other Buffalo Soldiers were the last African American servicemen to receive the Medal of Honor for over 50 years.

A Brave Buffalo Soldier

Early Life and Service

George Henry Wanton was born on May 15, 1868, in Paterson, New Jersey. He first served in the U.S. Navy from 1884 to 1888. In August 1889, he joined the United States Army.

By June 30, 1898, he was a Private in Troop M of the 10th Cavalry Regiment. This unit was famous for its African American soldiers, known as Buffalo Soldiers.

The Battle of Tayacoba

Wanton and 49 other Buffalo Soldiers were chosen for a special mission. This happened during the Spanish–American War in Cuba. American forces were on a ship called the Florida near Trinidad, Cuba. They sent a small group to check on Spanish outposts. This was to prepare for Cuban fighters to land.

Spanish scouts discovered the American group. The Americans came under heavy fire. Their boats were sunk by enemy cannons. This left them stuck on the shore.

A Heroic Rescue Mission

The men on the Florida tried several times to rescue them. The first four attempts failed because of heavy enemy fire. The fifth rescue attempt was different. It was launched at night. Wanton and three other Privates from the 10th Cavalry were part of this team. These brave soldiers were Dennis Bell, Fitz Lee, and William H. Thompkins.

They were led by Lieutenant Ahern. This team successfully found and rescued the surviving members of the landing party. When they returned to the ship, Wanton volunteered to go back. He wanted to get the body of Captain Jose Manuel Núñez, who had been killed. However, this was considered too dangerous.

Medal of Honor and Later Life

One year later, on June 23, 1899, four of the rescuers received the Medal of Honor. This was for their brave actions in what became known as the Battle of Tayacoba.

In November 1921, George Wanton was chosen for a special honor. He was an Honorary Pallbearer at the burial of the Unknown Soldier. This important ceremony took place at Arlington National Cemetery.

George Wanton reached the rank of Master Sergeant. He served in the United States Army Quartermaster Corps before leaving the Army. He passed away at age 72 and was buried in Arlington National Cemetery in Arlington County, Virginia.