Moses Harris (soldier) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Moses Harris
|
|
---|---|
![]() |
|
Born | Andover, New Hampshire |
October 8, 1837
Died | June 27, 1927 New York, USA |
(aged 89)
Buried |
United States Military Academy Post Cemetery
|
Allegiance | United States of America |
Service/ |
Army |
Years of service | 1857 - 1893 |
Rank | Major |
Unit | ![]() |
Awards | Medal of Honor |
Spouse(s) | Abba Eliza Boutelle Harris |
Relations | Eleanor Sarah Harris Haverstick daughter Margaret Boutelle Harris daughter |
Moses Harris (born October 8, 1837 – died June 27, 1927) was a brave officer in the United States Army. He fought for the Union side during the American Civil War. For his amazing courage, he was given the Medal of Honor, which is the highest award for military bravery.
Early Life and Military Start
Moses Harris was born in a town called Andover, New Hampshire, on October 8, 1837. When he was 20 years old, in 1857, he joined the army. He worked hard and became a Second Lieutenant in May 1864. This was during the American Civil War.
A Heroic Act
While Moses Harris was a First Lieutenant in the 1st U.S. Cavalry, he showed incredible bravery. On August 28, 1864, his unit was near Smithfield, Virginia. They were suddenly attacked by a much larger enemy force.
Even though they were outnumbered, Lieutenant Harris showed great personal courage. His actions inspired his soldiers to fight extra hard. Because of his leadership, they completely defeated the enemy. For this heroic act, he was awarded the Medal of Honor on November 23, 1896.
Later Career and Family Life
Moses Harris continued to serve in the 1st U.S. Cavalry for the rest of his career. He rose through the ranks and eventually became a Major.
From 1886 to 1889, Major Harris had a very special job. He was the very first military superintendent of Yellowstone National Park. This meant he was in charge of protecting the park and its amazing nature.
Moses Harris married Abba Eliza Boutelle Harris. They had two daughters named Eleanor Sarah Harris Haverstick and Margaret Boutelle Harris.
Major Moses Harris passed away on June 27, 1927, in New York, USA. He was buried in the United States Military Academy Post Cemetery.