Richard Byrnes facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Richard Byrnes
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|---|---|
| Born | 1832 County Cavan, Ireland |
| Died | 1864 Cold Harbor, Virginia, United States |
| Buried |
Calvary Cemetery, Queens, New York
|
| Allegiance | United States of America |
| Service/ |
USA Army |
| Years of service | 1851 - 1864 |
| Rank |  Colonel |
| Commands held | 28th Massachusetts Volunteers; Irish Brigade |
| Battles/wars | Indian Campaigns: Florida, Oregon American Civil War: Fredericksburg, Chancellorsville, Gettysburg, Cold Harbor |
Richard Byrnes (born 1832 – died June 10, 1864) was an Irish-American soldier. He became an important officer in the United States Army. During the American Civil War, he even led the famous Union Army's Irish Brigade.
Contents
Early Life and Military Career
Richard Byrnes was born in 1832 in County Cavan, Ireland. When he was about 12 years old, in 1844, he moved to New York City.
In 1851, when he was 19, Byrnes joined the regular United States Army. He became part of the 2nd U.S. Cavalry. This group was led by Colonel Edwin Vose Sumner. Young Byrnes showed great bravery and skill. He served in important military actions against Native American tribes in Florida and Oregon.
Service in the Civil War
When the American Civil War began, Richard Byrnes was recognized for his abilities. Colonel Sumner recommended him for a higher position. Byrnes was made a First Lieutenant in the 5th U.S. Cavalry. This was one of the new army groups approved by the United States Congress.
He stayed with this regular army group through the battles of 1861 and 1862. Then, Governor John Albion Andrew of Massachusetts chose him for a special role. Byrnes was made a Colonel of the 28th Massachusetts Volunteer Infantry Regiment. He took command of this group on October 18, 1862.
Joining the Irish Brigade
In November 1862, Colonel Byrnes's new regiment joined Thomas Francis Meagher's famous Irish Brigade. This brigade was known for its bravery and strong fighting spirit. Byrnes and his men took part in many fierce battles with the Army of the Potomac.
He led his soldiers bravely up Marye's Heights during the Battle of Fredericksburg. This was a very difficult and dangerous attack. After this battle, and the very tough fights at Chancellorsville and Gettysburg, the Irish Brigade had lost many soldiers.
In late 1863 and early 1864, Colonel Byrnes went back to Massachusetts. His job was to find new soldiers to join the regiment. He helped rebuild the brigade's strength.
Leading the Irish Brigade
When the fighting started again in May 1864, Colonel Byrnes returned to the front lines. As the most senior officer, he took command of the entire Irish Brigade. This was a great honor and a huge responsibility.
Death and Legacy
Just two weeks after taking command, on June 3, 1864, Colonel Byrnes was severely wounded. He was leading the Irish Brigade in an attack at the Cold Harbor in Virginia. He was hit while bravely leading his men against enemy defenses.
He was taken to Washington, where his wife was able to reach him. Sadly, Richard Byrnes died from his wounds.
Right before he died, President Abraham Lincoln had approved his promotion to brigadier general. However, he passed away before he could officially receive this new rank. So, the promotion never became official.
His body was sent to New York City and buried in Calvary Cemetery. Richard Byrnes is remembered as a brave and dedicated officer who served his country with honor during a very difficult time.
