George Mason Lovering facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
George Mason Lovering
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Born | Springfield, New Hampshire |
January 10, 1832
Died | April 2, 1919 Lewiston, Maine |
(aged 87)
Place of burial |
Union Cemetery
Holbrook, Massachusetts |
Allegiance | ![]() Union |
Service/ |
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Rank | ![]() |
Unit | 4th Massachusetts Militia Regiment 75th United States Colored Troops |
Battles/wars | American Civil War |
Awards | Medal of Honor |
George Mason Lovering (January 10, 1832 – April 2, 1919) was a brave soldier who fought for the Union Army during the American Civil War. He received the Medal of Honor, which is the highest award for bravery in the United States. He earned this special award for his courage during a big battle called the Siege of Port Hudson.
Contents
Early Life and Military Start
George Mason Lovering was born on January 10, 1832. His family lived in Springfield, New Hampshire. Later, they moved to East Randolph, which is now called Holbrook, Massachusetts.
As a young man, George joined a local army group. This group was called the Randolph Light Infantry. It was a militia unit, which means it was a group of citizens trained as soldiers.
Joining the Civil War
When the American Civil War began, George's militia unit was called to serve. He became a First Sergeant in Company I. This company was part of the 4th Massachusetts Militia Regiment.
Bravery in Battle
On June 14, 1863, George Lovering took part in a very important battle. This was the Siege of Port Hudson. Port Hudson was a strong fort held by the Confederate army. It was located on the Mississippi River.
Medal of Honor Award
George showed great courage during the Siege of Port Hudson. Because of his bravery, he was given the Medal of Honor in 1891. This is the highest military award in the United States. George was the only person from Holbrook to receive this honor.
Later Military Service
After the Siege of Port Hudson, George Lovering became a First Lieutenant. He joined a new unit called the 75th Regiment of United States Colored Troops. This unit was made up of African American soldiers.
He also fought in the Red River campaign. This was another important series of battles. George served in the swampy areas of Louisiana. He continued to serve until he left the army in 1865.
Life After the War
After the war ended, George Lovering moved to Maine. He spent his last years living in a home for military veterans. He passed away on April 2, 1919, at the age of 87. He died at St. Mary's Hospital in Lewiston, Maine. George Mason Lovering is buried in Union Cemetery in Holbrook.