Orlando E. Caruana facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Orlando E. Caruana
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| Born | June 23, 1844 Valletta, Crown Colony of Malta |
| Died | September 14, 1917 (aged 73) Washington, D.C., United States |
| Buried |
Mount Olivet Cemetery, Washington, D.C.
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| Allegiance | United States |
| Service/ |
United States Army |
| Years of service | 1861–1864 |
| Rank | Sergeant |
| Unit |  51st Regiment New York Volunteer Infantry - Company K |
| Battles/wars | Battle of New Bern Battle of South Mountain |
| Awards |  Medal of Honor |
Private Orlando Emanuel Caruana (born June 23, 1844 – died September 14, 1917) was a brave soldier. He was born in Malta but became an American soldier. He fought in the American Civil War. Caruana earned the Medal of Honor. This is the highest award for bravery in the United States. He received it for his actions in two battles in 1862. These were the Battle of New Bern and the Battle of South Mountain. He got this special award on November 14, 1890.
Contents
Early Life and Military Service
Orlando Caruana was born on June 23, 1844. His birthplace was Valletta, which was then part of the British Crown Colony of Malta. When he was 17, he joined the U.S. Army. He said he was 20 years old at the time. This happened in New York City in August 1861. He became a soldier during the American Civil War.
Heroic Actions in Battle
Caruana received the Medal of Honor for two very brave actions. Both happened in 1862.
Battle of New Bern
His first brave act was on March 14, 1862. This was during the Battle of New Bern in North Carolina. The soldier carrying the battle flag was hurt. Caruana quickly took the flag from him. He then helped the wounded soldier off the battlefield. This saved the flag from being captured.
Battle of South Mountain
His second brave act was on September 14, 1862. This happened during the Battle of South Mountain in Maryland. Caruana and three other soldiers volunteered for a dangerous mission. They went to scout out, or secretly check, the enemy's position. Sadly, the other three men were killed. But Caruana managed to escape. He made it back safely to his company.
Later Life and Legacy
Caruana was part of the 51st New York Infantry. He left the army in September 1864. He had served his country bravely. Orlando Caruana passed away on September 14, 1917. He was buried at the Mount Olivet Cemetery. This cemetery is located in Washington D.C.. His actions during the Civil War are remembered. He is honored as a Medal of Honor recipient.
