Stuart Heintzelman facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Stuart Heintzelman
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Brigadier General Stuart Heintzelman in October 1918
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| Born | November 19, 1876 |
| Died | July 6, 1935 (aged 58) Fort Omaha, Nebraska |
| Allegiance |  United States of America |
| Service/ |
 United States Army |
| Years of service | 1899–1935 |
| Rank | Major General |
| Commands held | 22nd Infantry Brigade Command and General Staff College Seventh Corps Area |
| Battles/wars | Boxer Rebellion World War I |
| Awards | Distinguished Service Medal Legion of Honor (France) Croix de Guerre (France) Order of the Crown (Italy) |
| Relations | Samuel P. Heintzelman (grandfather) |
Stuart Heintzelman (born November 19, 1876 – died July 6, 1935) was an American soldier who became a Major General. He was the grandson of Samuel P. Heintzelman, a famous general from the American Civil War. Heintzelman had a long and important career in the United States Army, serving in different parts of the world and playing a key role in World War I.
Contents
Becoming a Soldier: Stuart Heintzelman's Early Career
Stuart Heintzelman began his military journey in 1899. He graduated from the United States Military Academy and became a Second Lieutenant in the Cavalry. For his first five years, he served with cavalry units in places like Kansas and Idaho.
Serving in Asia: The Philippines and China
Heintzelman also served with the 4th Cavalry in the Philippines. Later, he was part of an international group that helped stop the Boxer uprising in China. This was an important time for him to gain experience in different parts of the world.
Learning and Teaching at Fort Leavenworth
In 1904, Heintzelman showed his skills by becoming an honor graduate from the Infantry and Cavalry School at Fort Leavenworth. He later returned to Fort Leavenworth as an instructor. He also taught military studies at Princeton University, sharing his knowledge with others.
World War I: A Key Planner
During World War I, Stuart Heintzelman was a very important officer. He worked with the American Expeditionary Force, which was the American army sent to fight in Europe.
Planning Major Battles
Heintzelman was in charge of planning the St. Mihiel Offensive. This was a big battle where American and French forces worked together. He also helped the French army in other battles, like the Chemin des Dames offensive in 1917. He even served with French troops during winter operations in northern Italy.
Leading Important Commands
By the end of the war, Heintzelman was the Chief of Staff for two important groups: the IV Corps and later the Second Army. This meant he was a top leader, helping to organize and direct many soldiers.
After the War: Continued Service
After World War I, Heintzelman continued to serve in many important roles from 1921 to 1929. He commanded the 22nd Infantry Brigade and was in charge of the defenses for New York City. He also worked as an Assistant Chief of Staff for War Plans, helping to plan for future military needs.
Leading the Command and General Staff College
In 1929, he went back to Fort Leavenworth to become the leader of the United States Army Command and General Staff College. This is a very important school where army officers learn how to be good leaders. In 1931, he was promoted to Major General. As the Commandant, Heintzelman made the school's lessons better and often taught in the classroom himself.
His Final Years
Stuart Heintzelman passed away in 1935 after a gall bladder operation. At that time, he was in command of the Seventh Corps Area at Fort Omaha, Nebraska. He is buried at Arlington National Cemetery with his wife.
Awards and Honors
Major General Heintzelman received many awards for his service:
- The Distinguished Service Medal from the United States.
- The Commander of the Legion of Honor from France.
- The Croix de Guerre with palm from France.
- The Commander of the Order of the Crown from Italy.
He also received campaign badges for his service in the Philippines, China, on the Mexican border, and for his role in World War I.
Legacy: A Ship Named in His Honor
To honor his service, a ship was named after him: the USS General Stuart Heintzelman (AP-159). This ship was launched in April 1945, helping to carry supplies and troops during World War II.
