Hanson Edward Ely facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Hanson Edward Ely
|
|
|---|---|
Maj. Gen. Ely in Merl, December 1918
|
|
| Born | November 23, 1867 Independence, Iowa, US |
| Died | April 20, 1958 (aged 90) Atlantic Beach, Florida, US |
| Buried | |
| Allegiance |  United States |
| Service/ |
 United States Army |
| Years of service | 1891–1931 |
| Rank |  Major General |
| Service number | 0-80 |
| Battles/wars | Spanish–American War United States occupation of Veracruz World War I |
| Awards | Silver Star (3) Distinguished Service Cross Distinguished Service Medal Legion of Honour Croix de Guerre (5) |
Hanson Edward Ely (born November 23, 1867 – died April 28, 1958) was an important officer in the United States Army. He served in the military for many years, from the late 1800s into the mid-1900s.
Ely fought in several major conflicts, including the Spanish–American War and World War I. For his bravery and leadership, he received many high honors. These included the Distinguished Service Medal from the U.S. and the Legion of Honour from France.
Contents
Life and Military Career
Early Life and Training
Hanson Edward Ely was born in Independence, Iowa, on November 23, 1867. He chose a military path early in his life. In 1891, he graduated from the United States Military Academy. This is a famous school that trains future army officers. After graduating, he became an officer in the 22nd Infantry Regiment.
Early Service and the Spanish-American War
Before 1897, Ely served in different parts of the U.S. These places included Montana, North Dakota, and Nebraska. From 1897 to 1898, he taught military science at the University of Iowa.
When the Spanish–American War began, Ely joined his regiment. He then served in the Philippines from 1899 to 1901. In the Philippines, he led scouts and worked as an assistant for his regiment. He earned his first Silver Star medal for his actions there. Later, he returned to the Philippines for more service from 1907 to 1912. In 1914, he also served in the United States occupation of Veracruz in Mexico.
World War I Service
World War I was a very important time in Ely's career. From July to August 1917, he was the Provost-marshal for the American Expeditionary Forces. This meant he was in charge of military police duties. He then commanded the 20th Infantry Regiment.
In 1918, he was promoted to brigadier general. On October 1, 1918, he became a major general. After November 18, 1918, General Ely led the 2nd Infantry Division. He then commanded the 5th Infantry Division.
For his brave actions during World War I, he received many awards. He earned another Silver Star. He also received the Distinguished Service Cross and the Distinguished Service Medal. From France, he received the Legion of Honour and five Croix de Guerre medals.
Later Career and Retirement
After World War I, General Ely continued his service. From 1921 to 1923, he was the leader of the Commandant of the United States Army Command and General Staff College. This is a school where army officers learn advanced military skills.
In 1923, he was officially promoted to major general. He then became the leader of the United States Army War College until 1927. This is another important school for high-ranking officers. His last job was at Second Corps Area on Governors Island in New York.
General Ely retired from the army in 1931. He passed away on April 28, 1958, in Atlantic Beach, Florida. He was buried at Arlington National Cemetery, a special place where many American heroes are laid to rest.
Images for kids
-
Major General Hanson Edward Ely, commanding the 5th Division, pinning the Distinguished Service Cross on Captain Howard R. MacAdams of the 5th Division's 7th Engineer Regiment, Esch, Luxembourg, December 30, 1918.
