LeRoy Springs Lyon facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
LeRoy Springs Lyon
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Major General LeRoy Springs Lyon (far left) standing with other officers of the 31st Infantry Division.
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| Born | August 15, 1866 Petersburg, Virginia |
| Died | February 23, 1920 (aged 53) Camp Taylor, Kentucky |
| Buried | |
| Allegiance |  United States of America |
 United States Army |
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| Years of service | 1891-1920 |
| Rank |  Major General |
| Commands held | 65th Field Artillery Brigade, 31st Infantry Division, 90th Infantry Division, Field Artillery Basic School |
| Wars | Spanish–American War, Philippine–American War, First World War |
| Awards |  Distinguished Service Medal (Posthumous) |
| Spouse(s) | Harriet Amsden |
LeRoy Springs Lyon (born October 15, 1866 – died February 23, 1920) was an important American military officer. He served in several major conflicts. These included the Spanish–American War and the First World War. He rose through the ranks to become a Major General.
Contents
Early Life and Education
LeRoy Lyon was born on October 15, 1866. His parents were John Lyon and Margaret Springs Lyon. He was born in Petersburg, Virginia.
LeRoy Lyon went to Richmond College. He earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in 1886. This is a common college degree. After that, he attended the U.S. Military Academy. This famous school is also known as West Point. He graduated in 1891. He was one of the top students in his class.
Military Career Highlights
After graduating from West Point, Lyon joined the army. He became a Second Lieutenant in the 7th Cavalry. This happened in 1891. For much of his early career, he worked along the Mexican border. His unit tracked down Apache Indians who were causing trouble.
Spanish–American War Service
In 1898, Lyon finished training at the Coast Artillery School. This school was at Fort Monroe, Virginia. He was then chosen to be an aide to General Royal T. Frank. An aide is like a special assistant. Lyon helped General Frank during the Spanish–American War. This war took place from 1898 to 1899.
In 1899, Lyon moved to the 2nd Artillery Regiment. He served in Cuba until 1900. After more training, he became a District Artillery Engineer. This job involved managing artillery defenses. He held this position at Fort Barrancas, Florida, until 1906.
Service in the Philippines and Panama
From 1906 to 1907, Lyon served in the Philippine–American War. He fought against a group called the Moros. Later, from 1916 to 1917, he was stationed in the Panama Canal Zone. This is where the famous Panama Canal is located.
In May 1915, he was promoted to Colonel. He then returned to the United States. He commanded Camp Bowie, Texas. In August 1917, he became a brigadier general. This was an important promotion. He was given command of the 65th Field Artillery Brigade. This unit was at Camp Kearny, California. This happened just after the U.S. joined the First World War.
First World War Leadership
In May 1918, Lyon received another promotion. He became a major general. He was put in charge of the 31st Infantry Division. Lyon and his division arrived in France on September 29. They took part in the Meuse–Argonne offensive. This was a very large and important battle.
In November 1918, Lyon was given command of another unit. This was the 90th Infantry Division. He led this division until December of that year.
Post-War Period and Passing
After the First World War ended, Lyon returned to the United States. This was on May 13, 1919. He went back to his rank of Colonel in the Field Artillery. He commanded the Field Artillery Basic School. This school was at Camp Taylor, Kentucky.
LeRoy Springs Lyon passed away at Camp Taylor on February 23, 1920. He was buried at the Arlington National Cemetery. This is a special cemetery for military heroes. He was given the Distinguished Service Medal after his death. This award was for his excellent leadership. It recognized his work with the 65th Field Artillery Brigade and the 31st Infantry Division.
Personal Life
LeRoy Springs Lyon married Harriet Amsden. Their wedding took place on December 1, 1903.
