Henry G. Bonebrake facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Henry G. Bonebrake
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| Born | June 21, 1838 Waynesboro, Pennsylvania |
| Died | October 26, 1912 (aged 74) Waynesboro, Pennsylvania |
| Buried |
Green Hill Cemetery
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| Allegiance |  United States of America |
| Service/ |
 United States Army |
| Rank | Lieutenant |
| Unit |  17th Regiment Pennsylvania Volunteer Cavalry - Company G |
| Battles/wars | Battle of Five Forks |
| Awards |  Medal of Honor |
Henry G. Bonebrake (born June 21, 1838 – died October 26, 1912) was an American soldier. He bravely fought in the American Civil War. Bonebrake received the Medal of Honor, which is the highest award for bravery in the United States. He earned this award for his actions during the Battle of Five Forks in Virginia. This important battle happened on April 1, 1865. He was given the Medal of Honor on May 3, 1865.
Contents
Henry G. Bonebrake: A Civil War Hero
Early Life and Education
Henry G. Bonebrake was born in Waynesboro, Pennsylvania. His parents were Henry and Anna Stewart Bonebrake. He went to school in Washington Township. After finishing his studies, he became a teacher.
Joining the Civil War
Bonebrake joined the 17th Pennsylvania Volunteer Cavalry on September 12, 1862. He quickly showed leadership skills. First, he was chosen as a first sergeant. Later, he became a second lieutenant. By January 14, 1865, he was promoted to first lieutenant.
A Brave Act: The Medal of Honor
During the Battle of Five Forks on April 1, 1865, Bonebrake saw a Confederate soldier. This soldier was carrying a flag and encouraging his fellow soldiers. Bonebrake decided to try and capture the flag. A fight started between them. Bonebrake was successful and captured the flag. This flag belonged to the 35th Regiment North Carolina State Troops.
The captured flag was later sent to the War Department. It was given the capture number 340. For this incredibly brave act, Bonebrake received the Medal of Honor. He was given this special award on May 3, 1865. Bonebrake left the army on June 21, 1865, along with the rest of his company.
Life After the War
After the war ended, Bonebrake went back to teaching. He also worked as a farmer for some time. Later, he owned a grocery store. In 1898, he became an assistant postmaster. Bonebrake was married twice. His first wife was Cora Walters, who passed away in 1899. He then married Clara Palm, who also died before him in 1909.
Franklin County honored Bonebrake two times. They honored him in 1987 and again in 2002. He was the only person from the community to earn the Medal of Honor during the American Civil War. A special bronze tablet was placed to remember him.
