John Willian facts for kids
John Willian, Jr. (born in 1835, died April 25, 1869) was an important soldier during the American Civil War. He served as a Union Army colonel and helped manage the army's paperwork and organization as an assistant adjutant general. He was a brave leader who received a special honorary rank of brevet brigadier general for his service.
Contents
A Soldier's Story: John Willian, Jr.
Early Life and Beginnings
John Willian, Jr. was born in Lancashire, England. This was quite unusual because not many high-ranking officers in the American Civil War were born outside the United States. He moved to America and joined the military.
Serving in the Civil War
Willian started his military career as a second lieutenant with the 4th New Jersey Militia. This was around the time of the First Battle of Bull Run, one of the first major battles of the war. He later took on important roles, serving as an acting assistant inspector general. This meant he helped make sure the soldiers and their equipment were ready and organized. He worked for two important generals: Gershom Mott and Andrew A. Humphreys.
A Special Promotion
After the war ended, on January 13, 1866, President Andrew Johnson wanted to recognize John Willian, Jr.'s excellent service. He nominated Willian for a special honorary rank: brevet brigadier general of volunteers. A "brevet" rank is like an honorary title given for bravery or good service, even if the soldier didn't get the full pay or command of that higher rank. The United States Senate agreed to this promotion on March 12, 1866, making it official. The rank was set to count from April 9, 1865, which was near the end of the war.
