Martin J. Hawkins facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Martin J. Hawkins
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| Born | 1830 Mercer County, Pennsylvania |
| Died | 1886 (aged 55–56) |
| Buried | |
| Allegiance |  United States of America |
| Service/ |
 United States Army |
| Rank | First Lieutenant |
| Unit |  Company A, 33rd Ohio Infantry |
| Battles/wars | American Civil War Great Locomotive Chase |
| Awards |  Medal of Honor |
Martin Jones Hawkins (1830 – February 7, 1886) was a brave soldier who fought for the Union Army during the American Civil War. He received the Medal of Honor, which is the highest award for military bravery in the United States. This award was given to him for his amazing courage during a famous event called the Great Locomotive Chase.
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Who Was Martin Jones Hawkins?
Martin Jones Hawkins was born in 1830 in Mercer County, Pennsylvania. He later joined the Union Army, which was the army of the northern states during the American Civil War. This war was a big conflict in the United States that lasted from 1861 to 1865.
Early Military Service
Hawkins joined the army in Portsmouth, Ohio. He served as a Corporal, which is a military rank for a non-commissioned officer. He was part of Company A in the 33rd Ohio Infantry regiment.
The Great Locomotive Chase
In April 1862, Hawkins took part in a very daring mission known as the Great Locomotive Chase. This event happened near Big Shanty, Georgia. During this chase, Union soldiers secretly took a train called The General. Their goal was to damage Confederate railway lines and stop supplies from reaching the enemy. The chase involved a dangerous pursuit by train and on foot.
Receiving the Medal of Honor
For his extraordinary bravery during the Great Locomotive Chase, Martin Jones Hawkins was awarded the Medal of Honor. This special medal is given to members of the U.S. armed forces who show great courage and risk their lives beyond the call of duty. Hawkins received his Medal of Honor in September 1863.
Later Life and Legacy
Martin Jones Hawkins passed away on February 7, 1886, when he was 55 years old. He was buried at Woodland Cemetery in Quincy, Illinois. His actions during the Great Locomotive Chase are remembered as a remarkable example of courage during the Civil War.
