Rudolph R. Riddell facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Lieutenant
Rudolph Romeo Riddell
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Riddell in 1864
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| Born | 11 February 1847 Hamilton, New York |
| Died | 8 September 1913 (aged 66) Hamilton, New York |
| Buried |
Madison Street Cemetery, Hamilton, New York
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| Allegiance | United States (Union) |
| Service/ |
Army |
| Years of service | 1862-1865 |
| Rank | Lieutenant |
| Unit | Company I, 61st New York Volunteer Infantry |
| Commands held | Company I, 61st New York Volunteer Infantry |
| Battles/wars | Battle of Sailor's Creek |
| Awards | Medal of Honor |
Rudolph Romeo Riddell (born February 11, 1847 – died September 8, 1913) was a brave Lieutenant in the United States Army. He fought during the American Civil War. He earned the Medal of Honor, which is the highest award for bravery in the U.S. military. He received this award for a very courageous act on April 6, 1865. On that day, he captured an enemy flag.
Rudolph Romeo Riddell's Early Life
Rudolph Romeo Riddell was born in Hamilton, New York. His birthday was February 11, 1847. His parents were David and Polly Parks Riddell. He had one older brother or sister. In 1869, he married Annie Naomi Palmer. She lived from 1853 to 1934. They did not have any children. Rudolph Riddell passed away on September 8, 1913, in Hamilton. He was buried in the Madison Street Cemetery there.
Joining the Army and Becoming a Hero
Rudolph Riddell joined the Union Army when he was only 15 years old. He started as a drummer. Drummers played music to help soldiers march and signal commands. He later became a Lieutenant. This meant he was a leader in the army. He commanded a group of soldiers called Company I. They were part of the 61st New York Volunteer Infantry.
On April 6, 1865, a big battle happened. It was called the Battle of Sailor's Creek. This battle was near Farmville, Virginia. During this fight, Lieutenant Riddell did something amazing. He bravely captured the flag of the 6th Alabama Cavalry. This was a Confederate Army unit. Capturing an enemy flag was a very brave and important act. It showed great courage and helped his side.
For his bravery, Rudolph Riddell received the Medal of Honor. He was given this special award on May 10, 1865. He was honorably discharged from the Army later that year. This means he left the army with a good record.
The official reason for his award said: "The President of the United States of America, in the name of Congress, gives the Medal of Honor to Lieutenant Rudolph R. Riddell. This is for his amazing bravery on April 6, 1865. He was serving with Company I, 61st New York Infantry. This happened during a battle at Deatonsville (Sailor's Creek), Virginia. Lieutenant Riddell captured the flag of the 6th Alabama Cavalry (Confederate States of America)."
