John E. McMahon facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
John Eugene McMahon
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John McMahon commanding the 5th division, near Cuisy, 1918
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| Born | December 8, 1860 Buffalo, New York |
| Died | January 28, 1920 (aged 59) Princeton, New Jersey |
| Place of burial |
Oak Hill Cemetery, Washington, D.C.
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| Allegiance |  United States |
| Service/ |
 United States Army |
| Years of service | 1886–1919 |
| Rank |  Major general |
| Unit | 4th U.S. Artillery |
| Commands held | 5th Infantry Division 41st Infantry Division |
| Battles/wars | Spanish–American War Philippine–American War World War I |
| Relations | John E. McMahon Jr. |
John Eugene McMahon was an important U.S. Army officer who became a major general. He was born on December 8, 1860, and passed away on January 28, 1920. His son, John E. McMahon Jr., also became a high-ranking officer in the Army.
Early Life and Education
John McMahon was born in Buffalo, New York, on December 8, 1860. His parents were Colonel John E. McMahon and Esther Bryan McMahon.
He went to Fordham University and earned a degree in 1880. After that, he joined the United States Military Academy, also known as West Point. He graduated in 1886, ranking 11th in his class of 77 students.
Military Career Highlights
After graduating from West Point, McMahon became an officer in the Fourth Artillery. From 1891 to 1895, he worked as an aide to General Alexander McDowell McCook.
He served in several important conflicts:
- Spanish-American War: During this war, he was the adjutant general (a chief administrative officer) for the Second Brigade, Provisional Division, in 1898. He also served in Puerto Rico during this time.
- Philippine-American War: McMahon continued his service during the Philippine-American War.
- World War I: On December 17, 1917, he was promoted to major general. He commanded the 5th Infantry Division of the American Expeditionary Force from January to October 1918. He also briefly led the 41st Infantry Division in October 1918.
McMahon retired from the Army in 1919 due to health reasons, holding the rank of colonel. Years later, in 1930, his rank of major general was officially restored after his death.
Personal Life
John McMahon married Caroline Bache on May 12, 1888. He also taught modern languages at the United States Military Academy from 1890 to 1891.
He passed away in Princeton, New Jersey, on January 28, 1920, at the age of 67.
