Guy Vernor Henry facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Guy Vernor Henry
|
|
|---|---|
Maj. Gen. Guy V. Henry
|
|
| Born | March 9, 1839 Fort Smith, Indian Territory (now Arkansas) |
| Died | October 27, 1899 (aged 60) New York City, New York |
| Place of burial | |
| Allegiance | United States of America Union |
| Service/ |
United States Army Union Army |
| Years of service | 1861–1899 |
| Rank |  Major general |
| Unit |  40th Massachusetts Volunteer Infantry Regiment |
| Commands held | 10th U.S. Cavalry |
| Battles/wars | American Civil War
|
| Awards | Medal of Honor |
| Other work | Governor of Puerto Rico |
Guy Vernor Henry (born March 9, 1839 – died October 27, 1899) was an important military officer. He received the Medal of Honor, which is a very special award for bravery. He also served as an early Governor of Puerto Rico.
Contents
A Life of Service
Guy Vernor Henry was born in Fort Smith, which is now in Arkansas. His father, William Seton Henry, was also a military officer. He fought in the Mexican–American War.
Guy V. Henry followed in his father's footsteps. He graduated from the United States Military Academy in May 1861. This was just as the Civil War was beginning.
Serving in the Civil War
During the Civil War, Henry was an officer in the Union Army. He fought in many important battles. One of these was the Battle of Cold Harbor in June 1864.
At this battle, he was a colonel and led a group of soldiers. For his bravery and leadership during the Civil War, he later received the Medal of Honor. This is the highest military award in the United States.
Conflicts in the West
After the Civil War, Henry continued his military career. He served in conflicts against Native American tribes in the western and southwestern parts of the United States.
One notable event was the Battle of the Rosebud on June 17, 1876. Henry was with General George Crook when they were attacked by forces led by Crazy Horse. Henry was badly wounded in the face during this battle.
Even with his serious injury, he showed great courage. When a reporter commented on his wound, Henry simply said, "For this we are soldiers." He was recognized for his bravery at the Battle of Rosebud.
The Spanish-American War
Later, during the Spanish–American War, Henry was sent to Guantánamo, Cuba. After that, he went to Puerto Rico with General Nelson Miles.
In Puerto Rico, Henry led a group of soldiers from Ponce to Arecibo, Puerto Rico. They were supposed to meet another general. However, heavy tropical rain made their journey difficult. The war ended before he reached his destination.
Governor of Puerto Rico
On December 6, 1898, Guy V. Henry was chosen to be the Governor of Puerto Rico. He made some important changes during his time as governor.
On February 6, 1899, he ended the existing Cabinet of Puerto Rico. He also removed taxes on basic food items, which helped the people. On May 2, 1899, he set up the eight-hour workday in Puerto Rico. This was a big step for workers' rights.
He served as governor until May 9, 1899, when General George W. Davis took over.
Family Life
Guy V. Henry was married twice. His first wife was Frances Wharton. They had two children: Sarah Wharton Henry and Thomas Lloyd Henry.
His second wife was Julia McNair. They also had two sons. One of their sons, Guy V. Henry, Jr., also had a distinguished military career. He also won a bronze medal in the 1912 Olympic Games in Stockholm for equestrian events.
Awards and Recognition
General Guy V. Henry received several awards for his service:
- Medal of Honor
- Civil War Campaign Medal
- Indian Campaign Medal
- Spanish Campaign Medal
- Army of Puerto Rican Occupation Medal
It's interesting to note that most of these awards were created after General Henry's death. However, his bravery and service were recognized with these honors.
Henry died in New York City in October 1899 due to pneumonia. He was buried at Arlington National Cemetery, a place where many American heroes are laid to rest.
