Moses Williams (Medal of Honor) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Moses Williams
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Ordnance Sergeant Williams
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| Born | October 10, 1845 Carrollton, Louisiana |
| Died | August 23, 1899 Vancouver, Washington |
| Place of burial |
Fort Vancouver Military Cemetery, Vancouver, Washington
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| Allegiance | United States of America |
| Service/ |
United States Army |
| Years of service | 1866 - 1898 |
| Rank | Ordnance Sergeant |
| Unit | 9th Cavalry Regiment Coast Artillery Corps, Ft. Stevens, Oregon |
| Battles/wars | American Indian Wars |
| Awards | Medal of Honor |
Moses Williams (born October 10, 1845 – died August 23, 1899) was a brave Buffalo Soldier in the United States Army. He received America's highest military award, the Medal of Honor. This award was given for his heroic actions during the Indian Wars in the western United States.
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Moses Williams: A Buffalo Soldier
Moses Williams was born in Carrollton, Louisiana. He became an orphan at a very young age. After the American Civil War, many African American men faced hard times. Joining the Army offered a chance for a stable life. It provided a job, a purpose, and even an education.
Joining the Army in 1866
In October 1866, Moses Williams joined the Army. He became part of the new 9th Cavalry Regiment. This regiment was created specifically for Black soldiers. At first, he couldn't read or write. He signed his enlistment form with an "X".
After joining, he went to training camp in Greenville, Louisiana. The Buffalo Soldiers trained hard during the day. In the evenings, they went to school. They learned to read, write, and do math. This helped them gain important skills for their lives.
Serving in Texas (1867-1875)
In March 1867, Williams and his unit moved to San Antonio, Texas. They received more training there. In August 1867, he was promoted to First Sergeant of Company F.
His company was sent to West Texas. Their job was to protect stagecoach stations and mail routes. They guarded against raids by Native American tribes like the Comanches and Kiowas. In 1871, he reenlisted and continued to serve as a First Sergeant in Company K.
Heroism at Cuchillo Negro Creek (1881)
On August 16, 1881, Williams was with Company I of the 9th Cavalry Regiment. They were fighting in the Battle of Cuchillo Negro Creek. This battle took place in the Black Range Mountains of New Mexico.
During the fight, Williams showed great bravery. He helped save his commanding officer. He also gathered ammunition under heavy fire. For his actions that day, he was awarded the Medal of Honor.
Later Years in Oregon (1895-1898)
In 1886, Moses Williams became one of the first African-American Ordnance Sergeants. This was a very important role. An Ordnance Sergeant was in charge of weapons and ammunition.
From 1895, he served at Fort Stevens, Oregon. Here, he was responsible for large coastal guns. These guns protected the coast.
Retirement and Legacy
Moses Williams retired from the Army in May 1898. He retired due to health issues. He had served his country for 32 years. He lived in Vancouver, Washington, at the Vancouver Barracks. He passed away the next year at age 53.
He was buried in the Fort Vancouver Military Cemetery in Vancouver, Washington. Moses Williams is remembered as a dedicated soldier. He was a true hero who earned the highest military award.
Why Were They Called Buffalo Soldiers?
The name "Buffalo Soldiers" has a few possible origins:
- Fierce Fighting Style: Some say Native Americans called them "Buffalo Soldiers" because of their brave and fierce fighting style. They fought with the spirit of a buffalo.
- Appearance: Another idea is that their curly hair looked like the fur of a buffalo. Also, some soldiers wore coats made from buffalo hides to stay warm in winter. These coats were called "Buffalo Robes."
