James M. Drake facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
James M. Drake
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| Born | March 25, 1837 Washington Valley, New Jersey |
| Died | November 28, 1913 (aged 76) Elizabeth, New Jersey |
| Buried |
Evergreen Cemetery
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| Allegiance |  United States of America |
| Service/ |
 United States ArmyNew Jersey National Guard |
| Rank | Second Lieutenant (Army) Colonel (National Guard)) |
| Unit |  9th New Jersey Volunteer Infantry - Company D |
| Battles/wars | Battle of Port Walthall Junction |
| Awards |  Medal of Honor |
| Signature | .png) |
James Madison Drake (March 25, 1837 to November 28, 1913) was an American soldier who fought in the American Civil War. Drake received the country's highest award for bravery during combat, the Medal of Honor, for his action during the Battle of Port Walthall Junction in Virginia on May 6, 1864. He was honored with the award on March 3, 1873.
Biography
Drake was born in the Washington Valley near Washington Rock in Somerset County, New Jersey on March 25, 1837. He joined the 9th New Jersey Infantry in July 1861. After the war, he served in the New Jersey National Guard, rising to the rank of Colonel. He also worked as a newspaper publisher and author in Elizabeth, New Jersey. Drake died on November 28, 1913 and his remains are interred at the Evergreen Cemetery in Hillside, New Jersey.
