John Brosnan (soldier) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
John Brosnan
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| Born | July 1, 1846 Ireland |
| Died | August 7, 1921 (aged 75) Brooklyn, New York |
| Allegiance | United States of America |
| Service/ |
United States Army Union Army |
| Years of service | 1862 - 1865 |
| Rank | Sergeant |
| Unit |  164th Regiment New York Volunteer Infantry - Company E |
| Battles/wars | Second Battle of Petersburg |
| Awards |  Medal of Honor |
John Brosnan (born July 1, 1846 – died August 7, 1921) was a brave soldier from Ireland. He fought for the United States during the American Civil War. John Brosnan earned the Medal of Honor, which is the highest award for bravery a soldier can receive in the U.S. He received this award for his heroic actions during the Second Battle of Petersburg in Virginia on July 17, 1864.
Early Life and Military Service
John Brosnan was born in Ireland on July 1, 1846. When he was 16 years old, he decided to join the army. He enlisted (signed up) as a private soldier on August 2, 1862. He became part of the 164th New York Infantry.
This group was special. The 164th New York Infantry, along with a few other regiments, formed a group called "Corcoran's Legion." This legion was made up of soldiers from Ireland. They were known for their bravery and fighting spirit.
Heroic Actions and the Medal of Honor
John Brosnan rose through the ranks and became a sergeant. A sergeant is a non-commissioned officer who leads a small group of soldiers. It was during his time as a sergeant that he performed an incredibly brave act.
On the morning of June 17, 1864, during the Second Battle of Petersburg, Sergeant Brosnan heard cries for help. A soldier from his company, Corporal Michael Carroll, had been badly wounded. Corporal Carroll was lying in a dangerous spot, exposed to heavy gunfire from the enemy.
Without hesitation, Sergeant Brosnan rushed to help. He went into the line of fire to rescue Corporal Carroll. He managed to lift the wounded corporal into his arms and carry him to safety. This was a very risky rescue mission.
During this heroic act, Sergeant Brosnan himself was wounded. He lost an arm because of his injuries. Because of his bravery and sacrifice, he was discharged from the army in February 1865.
For his amazing courage, John Brosnan was awarded the Medal of Honor. This special award was given to him on January 18, 1894. It recognized his incredible bravery in saving a fellow soldier under fire.
Life After the War
After the war ended, John Brosnan lived in New York. He passed away on August 7, 1921. His body was laid to rest at the Holy Cross Cemetery in Brooklyn. His story remains an important example of courage and self-sacrifice during the American Civil War.
