James H. Harris facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
James H. Harris
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Sergeant James H. Harris
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| Born | 1828 Saint Mary's County, Maryland |
| Died | January 28, 1898 (aged 69–70) |
| Place of burial | |
| Allegiance | United States of America Union |
| Service/ |
United States Army Union Army |
| Years of service | 1864–1867 |
| Rank | Sergeant |
| Unit |  Company B, 38th Regiment United States Colored Troops |
| Battles/wars | American Civil War • Battle of Chaffin's Farm |
| Awards | Medal of Honor |
James H. Harris (born in 1828, died in 1898) was a brave African American soldier. He fought for the Union Army during the American Civil War. He earned the highest military award in the United States, called the Medal of Honor. He received this special award for his heroic actions during the Battle of Chaffin's Farm.
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About James H. Harris
James H. Harris was born in Saint Mary's County, Maryland. Before he joined the army, he worked as a farmer. He was 36 years old when he enlisted in the U.S. Army on February 14, 1864. He started as a private in Company B of the 38th United States Colored Troops regiment.
He quickly showed his skills and leadership. Just five months later, on July 25, he was promoted to corporal. Then, only two months after that, on September 10, he became a sergeant.
Heroic Actions at Chaffin's Farm
On September 29, 1864, a big battle happened at a place called Battle of Chaffin's Farm. Sergeant Harris's regiment was part of a group of African American soldiers. Their mission was to attack the middle of the Confederate defenses at New Market Heights.
The Confederate defenses were very strong. They had two lines of sharp, pointed stakes called abatis. They also had a line of tall, strong fences called palisades. These defenses were guarded by a group of soldiers known as the Texas Brigade.
The attack faced very heavy fire from the Confederates. More than half of the African American soldiers were killed, captured, or wounded. The first attack stopped at the abatis. But then, a new effort began. Sergeant Harris, along with two other brave soldiers from his regiment, Private William H. Barnes and Sergeant Edward Ratcliff, led the charge.
They were the first to break through the enemy's defenses. These three soldiers fought the Confederates in hand-to-hand combat. Soon, the rest of their division joined them. The Confederate forces were defeated and had to retreat.
Medal of Honor and Legacy
More than seven years after the battle, on February 18, 1874, James H. Harris received the Medal of Honor. This award was given to him for his "gallantry in the assault" at Chaffin's Farm. Gallantry means great bravery, especially in battle.
James H. Harris passed away around the age of 69. He was buried at Arlington National Cemetery in Arlington County, Virginia. This is a very important cemetery where many American heroes are laid to rest.
United States Colored Troops Memorial
James H. Harris is specially honored at the United States Colored Troops Memorial Statue. This memorial is located in Lexington Park, Maryland. This is in St. Mary's County, the same place where he grew up and worked as a farmer. The information display at the memorial specifically mentions his name and his bravery.
