Lewis A. Rounds facts for kids

Lewis A. Rounds (born June 7, 1843 – died May 1, 1916) was a brave soldier in the United States Army. He fought during the American Civil War. Rounds received the Medal of Honor, which is the highest award for bravery in the U.S. military. He earned this medal on December 1, 1864, for his heroic actions in May 1864 at the Battle of Spotsylvania Court House.

About Lewis Rounds

Lewis Rounds was born on June 7, 1843. His birthplace was Cattaraugus County, in New York State. He got married to Maria Allbaugh in 1865. Rounds passed away on May 1, 1916, in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. He was laid to rest at Wood National Cemetery in Milwaukee.

Military Career

Lewis Rounds joined the Army on June 13, 1861. He started as a private in Norwalk, Ohio. He was part of Company D of the 8th Ohio Infantry. Later, on June 24, 1864, he moved to Company B of the same unit.

Promotions and Transfers

Rounds was promoted to 1st lieutenant on August 1, 1864. He then moved to the Field & Staff section on September 6, 1864. He became an adjutant on September 26, 1864. An adjutant helps with official paperwork and orders. On December 20, 1864, he transferred to Company C as a captain. Finally, he was promoted to Brevet Major on March 13, 1865. A "brevet" rank is an honorary promotion for bravery.

Medal of Honor

On May 12, 1864, Lewis Rounds showed great courage. This happened during the Battle of Spotsylvania Court House. Even though he was still a private, he captured a Confederate flag. This brave act earned him the Medal of Honor.

His official Medal of Honor citation says:

The President of the United States of America, in the name of Congress, takes pleasure in presenting the Medal of Honor to Private Lewis A. Rounds, United States Army, for extraordinary heroism on 12 May 1864, while serving with Company D, 8th Ohio Infantry, in action at Spotsylvania, Virginia, for capture of flag.

Rounds left the Army on July 12, 1865. His Medal of Honor is recognized as an award for Ohio.