James Bell (Medal of Honor) facts for kids

James Joseph Bell (born July 1, 1845 – died June 1, 1901) was a brave soldier in the United States Army. He earned the highest award for bravery, the Medal of Honor, during the Indian Wars. Sometimes, his name is mistakenly written as James M. Bell.

Early Life and Joining the Army

James Bell was born in County Antrim, Ireland, in 1845. He moved to the United States in 1866. At first, he worked as a laborer.

On July 9, 1870, James joined the U.S. Army. He was assigned to Company E of the Seventh Infantry. He liked army life and signed up again five years later.

The Great Sioux War and a Dangerous Mission

Preparing for Conflict

In March 1876, James Bell's company left their base in Montana. They joined General John Gibbon's forces. Their goal was to confront the Lakota and Northern Cheyenne people. These groups had refused to move onto reservations.

The soldiers traveled to Fort Ellis in Montana. Other troops were also gathering there. In April, the column marched east along the Yellowstone River. They met up with General Alfred Terry's group in early June.

The Battle of the Little Bighorn

Soon after, Lieutenant Colonel George Custer's column separated. They headed up the Rosebud River. General Terry and General Gibbon's column continued their march.

Two days later, they arrived at the site of the Battle of the Little Bighorn. Custer and his men had tragically lost their lives there.

A Brave Volunteer Mission

On July 9, 1876, General Terry needed to send an important message. He wanted to tell General George Crook about the Custer disaster. He also offered to work together against the Native American groups. This was a very dangerous mission. The message had to be carried through areas where fighting was happening.

Three soldiers from Captain Clifford's company bravely volunteered. They were James Bell, William Evans, and Benjamin F. Stewart. They risked their lives to deliver the message.

It took the soldiers three days to reach General Crook's camp. This camp was near what is now Sheridan, Wyoming. For their incredible bravery, all three soldiers received the Medal of Honor. They were awarded this honor on December 2, 1876.

The official reason for Bell's award stated: "Carried dispatches to Gen. Crook at the imminent risk of his life."

Later Life and Legacy

Bell's grave at Mount Olivet Cemetery

After his brave mission, Private Bell was promoted to sergeant. He spent the rest of his career in the Army. He served a total of eight enlistments.

In 1888, James Bell got married. He had one son, who was born in 1897 at Fort Logan. Bell later returned to Chicago. He passed away on July 1, 1901. He was buried in the Mount Olivet Cemetery in Chicago.

Important Note

It's important not to confuse James Joseph Bell with other soldiers. He is not the same person as James Franklin Bell. That James Bell later became a major general and received two Medals of Honor. He is also different from Sergeant James B. Bell of the 11th Ohio Infantry. That soldier earned his medal during the Civil War.