Thomas Burk facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Thomas Burk
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|---|---|
| Born | August 7, 1840 Lewis County, New York |
| Died | March 15, 1926 (aged 85) Lewis County, New York |
| Buried |
Lowville Rural Cemetery, Lowville, New York
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| Allegiance | United States of America |
| Service/ |
United States Army Union Army |
| Rank | Sergeant |
| Unit |  97th Regiment New York Volunteer Infantry - Company H |
| Battles/wars | Battle of the Wilderness |
| Awards |  Medal of Honor |
Sergeant Thomas Burk (born August 7, 1840, died February 15, 1926) was an American soldier. He fought bravely in the American Civil War. He received the Medal of Honor, which is the highest award for bravery in the United States. He earned this award for his actions during a big battle called the Battle of the Wilderness on May 6, 1864. He was given this special honor on August 24, 1896.
Contents
Thomas Burk: A Civil War Hero
Early Life and Joining the Army
Thomas Burk was born in Lewis County, New York on August 7, 1840. When the American Civil War began, he decided to join the army. He became a soldier in the 97th New York Volunteer Infantry. This unit was part of the Union Army, which fought to keep the United States together.
Bravery at the Battle of the Wilderness
Thomas Burk was a Sergeant in Company H of the 97th New York Volunteer Infantry. He showed incredible bravery during the Battle of the Wilderness. This battle took place in Virginia on May 6, 1864. It was one of the bloodiest battles of the Civil War. During the fighting, Sergeant Burk performed an act of great courage. This act earned him the nation's highest military award.
The Medal of Honor
The Medal of Honor is the highest award for bravery that a soldier can receive in the United States. It is given to those who show extreme courage and risk their lives above and beyond the call of duty. Sergeant Thomas Burk was honored with this medal on August 24, 1896. This was many years after the battle, but it recognized his heroic actions.
Thomas Burk lived a long life after the war. He passed away on February 15, 1926. His remains are buried at the Lowville Rural Cemetery in Lowville, New York.
