Martin Schwenk facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Martin Schwenk aka George Martin
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|
|---|---|
| Born | April 28, 1832 Kingdom of Württemberg |
| Died | Feb 1912 Cincinnati, Ohio |
| Buried |
St. Mary's Cemetery,
Cincinnati, Ohio |
| Allegiance |  United States of America |
| Service/ |
 United States Army |
| Rank | Sergeant |
| Unit |  Company B, 6th U.S. Cavalry Regiment |
| Battles/wars | American Civil War |
| Awards |  Medal of Honor |
Martin Schwenk (also known as George Martin, March 10, 1832 – June 20, 1924) was a brave German-American soldier. He fought for the United States during the American Civil War. Schwenk earned the Medal of Honor, which is the highest award for bravery a soldier can receive in the U.S. He received this special award for his actions during the Battle of Gettysburg in Pennsylvania on July 3, 1863. He was officially honored on April 23, 1889.
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Who Was Martin Schwenk?
Martin Schwenk was a soldier who showed incredible courage. He is remembered for his bravery during one of the most important battles in American history. His story helps us understand the sacrifices made during the Civil War.
Early Life and Joining the Army
Martin Schwenk was born in a place called Baden in Germany. When he was older, he moved to the United States. He decided to join the army in Boston, Massachusetts. This was during a time when the country was divided by the Civil War.
Fighting in the American Civil War
The American Civil War was a huge conflict in the United States. It lasted from 1861 to 1865. It was fought between the Northern states (the Union) and the Southern states (the Confederacy). Martin Schwenk fought for the Union side. He was a Sergeant in Company B of the 6th U.S. Cavalry Regiment.
Bravery at Gettysburg
One of the most famous battles Martin Schwenk fought in was the Battle of Gettysburg. This battle took place in Pennsylvania in July 1863. It was a very important turning point in the Civil War. During this fierce battle, Martin Schwenk showed great bravery. His actions on July 3, 1863, were so heroic that he was later awarded the Medal of Honor. This medal is given to soldiers who go above and beyond the call of duty.
A Special Award
The Medal of Honor is the highest military award given by the United States government. It is given for extreme bravery in combat. Martin Schwenk received his Medal of Honor on April 23, 1889. This award recognized his incredible courage during the Battle of Gettysburg.
Later Life and Legacy
After his service, Martin Schwenk lived until 1924. He was buried at Arlington National Cemetery. This is a special cemetery where many American heroes are laid to rest. Martin Schwenk's name lives on as a symbol of bravery and dedication. He is remembered as a hero of the American Civil War.
