Joseph Leonard Follett facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Joseph L. Follett
|
|
|---|---|
Medal of Honor recipient Joseph Leonard Follett in GAR uniform c1897
|
|
| Born | February 16, 1843 Newark, New Jersey |
| Died | April 1, 1907 (aged 64) New York City, New York |
| Buried |
Albany Rural Cemetery, Menands, New York
|
| Allegiance | United States of America |
| Service/ |
United States Army Union Army |
| Years of service | 1861 - 1865 |
| Rank |
 |
| Unit |  Battery G, 1st Missouri Light Artillery |
| Battles/wars | Battle of Island Number Ten Battle of Stones River |
| Awards |  Medal of Honor |
Joseph Leonard Follett (born February 16, 1843 – died April 1, 1907) was an American soldier. He fought bravely in the American Civil War. Follett received the country's highest award for courage, the Medal of Honor. He earned it for his actions in two important battles. These were the Battle of Island Number Ten and the Battle of Stones River. He was given this special award on September 19, 1890.
Contents
Joseph L. Follett: A Civil War Hero
Early Life and Joining the War
Joseph Leonard Follett was born in Newark, New Jersey. His birthday was February 16, 1843. His parents were Jacob Follett and Catherine Miller.
When the Civil War began, Joseph was still young. In April 1861, he decided to join the army. He became part of the 1st Missouri Infantry. This group later became the 1st Missouri Light Artillery.
Earning the Medal of Honor
Joseph Follett showed great bravery during the war. He was recognized for his actions in two major battles. The first was the Battle of Island Number Ten. This battle happened near New Madrid, Missouri, on March 3, 1862.
The second battle was the Battle of Stones River. This took place in Tennessee on December 31, 1862. For his courage in these fights, he received the Medal of Honor. This is the highest award a soldier can get for bravery.
What is the Medal of Honor?
The Medal of Honor is a very special award. It is given to members of the United States military. They receive it for showing extreme bravery. This bravery must be "above and beyond the call of duty." It is the highest military honor in the U.S.
Later Life and Legacy
After the war, Joseph Follett married Grace Kilgore. They had a daughter named Belsie Grace Follett. She was born on June 13, 1874.
Joseph Follett passed away on April 1, 1907. He was 64 years old. His final resting place is at the Albany Rural Cemetery. This cemetery is located in Albany, New York. His bravery during the Civil War is still remembered.
