James S. Roantree facts for kids

Quick facts for kids James S. Roantree
Born	1835 Kildare, Ireland
Died	1873 (aged 37–38)
Place of burial	New Calvary Cemetery, Mattapan, Massachusetts
Allegiance	United States of America Union
Service/branch	United States Marine Corps
Years of service	1858 - 1870
Rank	Sergeant
Unit	USS Agawam
Battles/wars	American Civil War
Awards	Medal of Honor

James S. Roantree (born 1835 – died February 24, 1873) was a brave soldier. He served as a sergeant in the United States Marine Corps. He fought during the American Civil War and earned the Medal of Honor for his courage. This is the highest award for bravery a soldier can receive.

Life and Service of James Roantree

Early Life and Joining the Marines

James Roantree was born in 1835 in a place called Leixlip in Kildare, Ireland. When he was older, he moved to the United States. This is called immigrating. He joined the Marine Corps in Brooklyn on January 15, 1858.

Fighting in the Civil War

After joining the Marines, James Roantree was sent to serve on a ship. This ship was called the USS Oneida (1861). He was part of the Marine Detachment on board. A Marine Detachment is a group of Marines assigned to a Navy ship.

The USS Oneida (1861) was part of the Union Navy. The Union was one side fighting in the American Civil War. This war was fought between the northern and southern states of America. Roantree's ship took part in an important battle. This was the Battle of Mobile Bay. It was a big naval battle during the war.

Later Years and Legacy

James Roantree finished his service in the Marine Corps in December 1870. He passed away a few years later. He died on February 24, 1873. He was buried at New Calvary Cemetery. This cemetery is in Mattapan, Massachusetts. His bravery during the Civil War is remembered through his Medal of Honor.