James B. Thompson facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
James B. Thompson
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|
|---|---|
| Born | 1843 Juniata County, Pennsylvania |
| Died | August 31, 1875 |
| Buried |
Port Royal, Pennsylvania
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| Allegiance |  United States of America |
| Service/ |
 United States Army |
| Rank | Sergeant |
| Unit |  Company G, 1st Pennsylvania Rifles |
| Battles/wars | Battle of Gettysburg American Civil War |
| Awards |  Medal of Honor |
James B. Thompson (born 1843 – died August 31, 1875) was an American soldier. He fought bravely in the American Civil War. This war was a big conflict in the United States. Thompson earned the highest award for bravery. This award is called the Medal of Honor.
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Who Was James B. Thompson?
James B. Thompson was born in 1843. His birthplace was Juniata County, Pennsylvania. He joined the army in Perrysville. After his life of service, he was buried in Port Royal, Pennsylvania.
A Hero in the Civil War
Thompson was a Sergeant in the Union Army. He served in Company G, 1st Pennsylvania Rifles. The American Civil War was fought from 1861 to 1865. It was a war between the Northern states (the Union) and the Southern states (the Confederacy).
Capturing the Flag at Gettysburg
Sergeant Thompson showed amazing courage. This happened during the Battle of Gettysburg. This battle was a very important fight. It took place on July 3, 1863. During the battle, Thompson captured a flag. This was the flag of the Confederate's 15th Georgia Infantry. Capturing an enemy's flag was a very brave act. It was also very important for morale.
His Special Award
For his bravery, James B. Thompson received the Medal of Honor. This is the highest military award in the United States. He was given this special award on December 1, 1864. His actions at Gettysburg made him a true hero.
