James McRae (U.S. general) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
James Henry McRae
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James McRae in Chatel-Chéhéry 1918
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| Born | December 24, 1862 Lumber City, Georgia |
| Died | May 1, 1940 (aged 77) Berkeley, California |
| Place of burial | |
| Allegiance |  United States of America |
| Service/ |
 United States Army |
| Years of service | 1886-1927 |
| Rank |  Major General |
| Unit | Third Infantry, |
| Commands held | 158th Deport Brigade, Ninth Infantry Brigade of the Fifth Infantry Division, 78th Infantry Division (AEF), Philippine Division, Ninth Corps Area, 11th Corps Area |
| Battles/wars | Spanish–American War, World War I |
| Awards | Distinguished Service Medal 2 x Citation Star Companion of the Bath (UK) Commander of the Legion of Honor (France) Croix de Guerre (France) |
James Henry McRae (born December 24, 1862 – died May 1, 1940) was an important general in the United States Army. He served his country for many years, taking part in major events like the Spanish–American War and World War I.
Contents
Growing Up and School
James Henry McRae was born on December 24, 1862, in a town called Lumber City, Georgia. His parents were Daniel F. McRae and Marion McRae.
He attended the United States Military Academy, also known as West Point. This is a very famous school for training army officers. James McRae graduated in 1886. He was number forty-eight out of seventy-seven students in his class.
His Military Career
After graduating, McRae became an officer in the Third Infantry. From 1886 to 1888, he worked on the frontier, which means he was stationed in less settled parts of the country.
Serving in Wars
James McRae served in two big wars:
- Spanish-American War: During this war, he was part of the Battle of El Caney in Cuba. He also worked in the Sanitary Corps, which helped keep soldiers healthy. For his work, he received his first Silver Star Commendation.
- Philippine Insurrection: He earned his second Silver Star during this conflict in the Philippines. He was even suggested for a special promotion called a brevet promotion.
Rising Through the Ranks
From 1905 to 1908, McRae worked on the General Staff, which helps plan and organize the army. In 1911, he graduated from the United States Army War College, another important school for military leaders.
Between 1913 and 1917, he worked in the Adjutant General's Department, which handles army records and communications. On August 5, 1917, he was promoted to brigadier general. He led the 158th Depot Brigade at Camp Sherman, Ohio. He also commanded the Ninth Infantry Brigade, which was part of the Fifth Infantry Division.
World War I Leadership
On April 12, 1918, James McRae was promoted again to major general. He took command of the 78th Infantry Division, which was part of the American Expeditionary Forces (AEF) in World War I. He led this division until June 1919. For his excellent leadership during the war, he received the Distinguished Service Medal.
After the war, in 1921 and 1922, he worked as an assistant chief in the G-1 (personnel) department, dealing with army staff.
Later Commands
From 1922 to 1923, and again in 1924, General McRae commanded the Philippine Division. He also served in the Philippine Department from 1924 to 1926. Before he retired, he briefly commanded the Ninth Corps Area and then the 11th Corps Area.
His Personal Life
On December 14, 1887, James McRae married Florence Stouch. She was the daughter of Lt. Col. R. H. Stouch, who was a veteran of the American Civil War. James and Florence had three children: Donald M. McRae, Dorothy McRae, and Mildred McRae.
Later, on February 24, 1926, he married Helen Burgar Stouch.
After he retired from the army, General McRae lived in Berkeley, California. He passed away on May 1, 1940. James McRae is buried at Arlington National Cemetery, a famous burial ground for military heroes.
