Patrick Highland facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Patrick Highland
|
|
|---|---|
| Born | 1841 or 1842 Tipperary, Ireland |
| Allegiance |  United States of America |
| Service/ |
 United States Army |
| Years of service | 1864 - 1865 |
| Rank | Sergeant |
| Unit |  Company D, 23rd Illinois Volunteer Infantry Regiment |
| Battles/wars | Third Battle of Petersburg American Civil War |
| Awards |  Medal of Honor |
Patrick Highland was an American soldier who showed incredible bravery during the American Civil War. He is famous for receiving the Medal of Honor, which is the highest award for courage a soldier can get in the United States.
Patrick Highland: A Hero of the Civil War
Patrick Highland earned his Medal of Honor for being extremely brave as a "Color Bearer." A Color Bearer is a soldier who carries the flag of their unit into battle. This is a very important and dangerous job. His heroic act happened during a big attack on a place called Fort Gregg in Virginia. This was part of the Third Battle of Petersburg, which took place on April 2, 1865.
He was given this special award on May 12, 1865, just a little over a month after his brave actions. His courage helped his unit during a very important moment in the war.
Early Life and Joining the Army
Patrick Highland was born in Tipperary, Ireland. When he was about 22 years old, he moved to the United States. In February 1864, he decided to join the US Army from Chicago. He served in the army until July 1865, when his regiment completed its service.
