James H. Gribben facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
James H. Gribben
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Civil War era Army Medal of Honor
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| Born | April 1839 Ireland |
| Died | August 6, 1878 |
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| Allegiance |  United States of America |
| Service/ |
 United States Army |
| Years of service | 1861 - 1865 |
| Rank | First Lieutenant |
| Unit |  Company C, 2nd New York Volunteer Cavalry Regiment |
| Battles/wars | Battle of Sayler's Creek American Civil War |
| Awards |  Medal of Honor |
James Henry Gribben (born April 1839 – died August 6, 1878) was a brave American soldier. He fought during the American Civil War, a very important time in American history. Gribben earned the highest award for courage in battle, the Medal of Honor. He received this special medal for capturing a Confederate flag during a major battle.
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Who Was James H. Gribben?
James Henry Gribben was born in Ireland in April 1839. When he was about 22 years old, he moved to the United States. In September 1861, he joined the United States Army from New York City. He served as a soldier for four years.
His Role in the War
Gribben became a First Lieutenant in Company C of the 2nd New York Volunteer Cavalry Regiment. This unit was part of the Union Army, which fought for the northern states during the Civil War. The Civil War was a conflict between the northern states (the Union) and the southern states (the Confederacy) from 1861 to 1865.
A Heroic Act
James H. Gribben showed incredible bravery during the war. His most famous act happened on April 6, 1865. This was just a few days before the war ended.
The Battle of Sayler's Creek
Gribben's heroic moment took place at the Battle of Sayler's Creek in Virginia. This was a very important battle. During the fighting, Gribben managed to capture the flag of the Confederate 12th Virginia Infantry. Capturing an enemy flag was a very dangerous and brave act. It was a big blow to the enemy's morale.
Receiving the Medal of Honor
For his courage at Sayler's Creek, James H. Gribben was awarded the Medal of Honor. This is the highest military award given by the United States government for bravery in combat. He received this special honor on May 3, 1865, shortly after the war ended.
Life After the War
Gribben was discharged from the US Army in June 1865, after the Civil War was over. He passed away on August 6, 1878, at the age of 39. He was buried at Cypress Hills Cemetery in Brooklyn, New York.
