Thomas Gamble Pitcher facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Thomas Gamble Pitcher
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| Born | October 23, 1824 Rockport, Indiana |
| Died | October 21, 1895 (aged 70) Fort Bayard, New Mexico |
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| Allegiance | United States of America Union |
| Service/ |
United States Army Union Army |
| Years of service | 1845–1878 |
| Rank |  Brigadier General |
| Commands held | Superintendent of the United States Military Academy |
| Battles/wars | Mexican–American War American Civil War |
Thomas Gamble Pitcher (born October 23, 1824 – died October 21, 1895) was an important American soldier. He had a long career in the United States Army. He is best known for being the leader, or Superintendent, of the United States Military Academy from 1866 to 1870.
Contents
Early Life and Education
Thomas Gamble Pitcher was born in Rockport, Indiana. His father, Judge John Pitcher, was a lawyer. Interestingly, Judge Pitcher even loaned his law books to a young Abraham Lincoln.
Thomas grew up and went to the famous West Point school. He graduated from West Point in 1845. This school trains future officers for the United States Army.
Military Service
Thomas Pitcher served in two major wars for the United States. He showed bravery and leadership in both.
Mexican-American War
After graduating from West Point, Pitcher served in the Mexican–American War. This war took place from 1846 to 1848. During this time, he earned a special honor called a brevet rank. This meant he was recognized for his courage. He was given the brevet rank of first lieutenant. Later, in 1858, he was promoted to the rank of captain.
American Civil War
Pitcher also played a part in the American Civil War. This war was fought between the Northern (Union) and Southern (Confederate) states. It lasted from 1861 to 1865.
In June 1862, Pitcher helped defend Harpers Ferry. This was an important town during the war. However, he and many other Union soldiers had to surrender to Confederate General Stonewall Jackson.
After being released, Pitcher returned to duty. He fought in the Virginia campaign. This was a series of battles in Virginia. He was severely wounded during the battle of Cedar Mountain on August 9, 1862.
Even after his injury, Pitcher was recognized for his service. He was given the brevet rank of major. A few months later, he became a brigadier general of volunteers. However, his injuries meant he could not fight in active battles anymore. On March 13, 1865, he received more brevet promotions. He became a lieutenant colonel, colonel, and brigadier general in the regular army.
Leading West Point
On July 28, 1866, Thomas Pitcher was given a new important role. He became the colonel of the 44th U.S. Infantry. From 1866 to 1870, he served as the Superintendent of the United States Military Academy. This meant he was in charge of the entire school. It was a very important job, helping to train the next generation of military leaders.
After his time at West Point, he continued to serve. From 1870 to 1877, he was the superintendent of the New York Soldiers and Sailors Home. This home helped soldiers and sailors who needed care.
Later Life and Legacy
Thomas Gamble Pitcher passed away on October 21, 1895. He died from tuberculosis. He is buried in Arlington National Cemetery. This is a special cemetery for military heroes. His two sons, Lt. Col. John Pitcher and Col. William L. Pitcher, are also buried there. Both of his sons also followed in his footsteps and graduated from West Point.
