Patrick Rogan (Medal of Honor) facts for kids

Patrick Rogan (born in County Leitrim, Ireland, in 1847 – died December 17, 1912) was an Irish-American soldier in the US Army. He was honored with the Medal of Honor, which is the highest award for bravery a soldier can receive in the United States. He earned this medal for his actions during the Indian Wars, a series of conflicts in the American West.

Starting His Army Journey

Patrick Rogan moved to the United States from Ireland. When he arrived, he was paid $625 to take the place of another man who had been called to join the army. This was a common practice at the time.

He officially joined the army in February 1865. This was during the very last months of the American Civil War. He served for a short time and was discharged in July of the same year.

But Rogan decided to rejoin the army almost a year later, in 1866. He became part of the 7th US Infantry.

A Career of Service and Bravery

During his first time in the army, Patrick Rogan married Margaret McLennon. Her brother, John McLennon, also later received the Medal of Honor for the same brave actions as Patrick.

By 1870, at the end of his first enlistment, Rogan had been promoted to the rank of sergeant. A sergeant is a non-commissioned officer who leads a small group of soldiers.

Later, during his second enlistment, he served alongside his brother-in-law, John McLennon. They were under the command of colonel John Gibbon during the Nez Perce War. This was another conflict during the Indian Wars.

Patrick Rogan continued to serve in the army for many years. By the time he finished his fifth enlistment in 1889, he had reached the rank of first sergeant. This is a very important leadership role for enlisted soldiers. He finally retired from the army in September 1895.

Life After the Army

After leaving the army, Patrick Rogan worked as a night watchman. He was employed by the Union Pacific Coal Company.

Patrick Rogan passed away in Rock Springs, Wyoming. He was buried there next to his wife, Margaret, and his brother-in-law, John McLennon.