George W. Corliss facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
George W. Corliss
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|---|---|
| Born | 1834 Connecticut |
| Died | May 15, 1903 New York |
| Buried |
Maple Grove Cemetery, New York
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| Allegiance |  United States of America |
| Service/ |
 United States Army |
| Rank | Captain |
| Unit |  5th Regiment, Connecticut Volunteer Infantry - Company C |
| Battles/wars | Battle of Cedar Mountain |
| Awards |  Medal of Honor |
Captain George W. Corliss (born 1834, died May 15, 1903) was an American soldier. He fought bravely during the American Civil War. Corliss received the Medal of Honor, which is the highest award for bravery in combat. He earned this award for his actions during the Battle of Cedar Mountain in Virginia on August 9, 1862. He was given this special honor on September 10, 1897.
A Hero of the Civil War
George W. Corliss was born in Connecticut in 1834. He joined the 5th Connecticut Infantry in New Haven, Connecticut. This was a group of soldiers who fought for the Union during the Civil War.
Bravery at Cedar Mountain
During the Battle of Cedar Mountain, Captain Corliss showed great courage. This is where he earned his Medal of Honor. In the battle, he was injured in his right leg. Because of his injury, Confederate soldiers captured him.
He was held as a prisoner at Libby Prison. This was a famous Confederate prison. He was held there until January 1863, when he was exchanged for another prisoner.
Life After Service
After being released, George Corliss left active military service for a short time. This was due to his leg injury. However, he later rejoined the army as a First Lieutenant. He served with the 3rd Veterans Reserve Corps. In 1865, he was given the honorary rank of major.
Corliss was married to Catherine Bounce. They lived in Mississippi for a while. Later, he moved back to New Haven, Connecticut. He then lived in Manhattan, New York, where he worked as an insurance broker. After his first wife passed away, he married Mary Harriet Munson. They had two children together.
George W. Corliss died on May 15, 1903. He was buried at the Maple Grove Cemetery in New York.
