Theophilus Francis Rodenbough facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Theophilus Francis Rodenbough
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T. F. Rodenbough
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| Born | November 5, 1838 Easton, Pennsylvania |
| Died | December 19, 1912 (aged 74) Easton, Pennsylvania |
| Place of burial |
Easton Cemetery
Easton, Pennsylvania |
| Allegiance |  United States of AmericaUnion |
| Service/ |
 United States ArmyUnion Army |
| Years of service | 1861 - 1870 |
| Rank |  Brigadier General |
| Unit |  2nd U.S. Cavalry Regiment |
| Commands held | 19th Pennsylvania Cavalry Regiment 42nd U.S. Infantry Regiment |
| Battles/wars | American Civil War |
| Awards | Medal of Honor |
| Other work | author |
Theophilus Francis Rodenbough (born November 5, 1838 – died December 19, 1912) was a brave officer in the Union Army during the American Civil War. He was born in Easton, Pennsylvania. Rodenbough earned the Medal of Honor, which is America's highest award for military bravery. He received it for his actions at the Battle of Trevilian Station. After leaving the U.S. Army in 1870, he became a writer and published several books about military history.
Biography
Theophilus Rodenbough began his military career on March 27, 1861. This was just before the start of the American Civil War. He joined the 2nd U.S. Dragoons as a second lieutenant. A second lieutenant is a junior officer rank.
He was promoted to first lieutenant on May 14, 1861. On August 3, 1861, his unit was renamed the 2nd U.S. Cavalry Regiment. Rodenbough became a captain in the U.S. Army on July 17, 1862.
Rodenbough was captured during the Second Battle of Bull Run on August 31, 1862. He was later exchanged on September 20, 1862. This meant he was traded for a captured Confederate soldier. He then continued to serve in important battles with the Army of the Potomac. As a captain, he led the 2nd U.S. Cavalry during the Gettysburg Campaign.
Gettysburg Campaign
The Gettysburg Campaign was a series of battles. These fights happened before and after the main Battle of Gettysburg. Rodenbough and his unit were part of these important events.
During this time, the Army of the Potomac was led by Major General George G. Meade. The Cavalry Corps, which included Rodenbough's unit, was commanded by Major General Alfred Pleasonton. Rodenbough's 2nd U.S. Cavalry was part of the First Division. This division was led by Brigadier General John Buford.
Medal of Honor
Rodenbough received the Medal of Honor for his bravery. This happened during the Battle of Trevilian Station in Virginia on June 11, 1864. He was wounded during this battle.
Later, on September 19, 1864, Rodenbough was severely injured. He lost his right arm at the Battle of Opequon in Virginia. After his injury, he briefly served as a colonel. He led the 18th Pennsylvania Volunteer Cavalry Regiment from April to October 1865.
Post Civil War Service
After the Civil War, Rodenbough left the volunteer army on October 31, 1865. On January 13, 1866, President Andrew Johnson suggested he be given the honorary rank of brigadier general. This was confirmed by the U.S. Senate.
On July 28, 1866, Rodenbough was promoted to major in the U.S. Army. He was assigned to the 42nd U.S. Infantry Regiment. President Johnson later nominated him for another honorary brigadier general rank in the regular army. This was confirmed on July 18, 1868. He was not assigned to a specific unit after March 15, 1869.
Retirement and Writing
Theophilus Rodenbough retired from the army in 1870. He retired with the rank of colonel. After his military career, he became a successful author. He also worked at the Soldiers' Home in Washington, D.C. and in New York State.
He wrote several books about military history. These books include:
- From Everglade to Cañon with the Second Dragoons (1875)
- Afghanistan and the Anglo-Russian Dispute (1885)
- Uncle Sam's Medal of Honor (1886)
- Sabre and Bayonet (1897)
He also helped edit a book called The Army of the United States (1896) with William L. Haskin.
On April 23, 1904, Rodenbough was officially appointed brigadier general on the retired list. Theophilus Francis Rodenbough is buried at Easton Cemetery in Easton, Pennsylvania.
