Thomas Shaw (Medal of Honor) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Thomas Shaw
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Sergeant Thomas Shaw
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| Born | 1846 Covington, Kentucky |
| Died | June 23, 1895 (aged 48–49) |
| Place of burial | |
| Allegiance | United States |
| Service/ |
United States Army |
| Years of service | 1864-1894 |
| Rank | Sergeant |
| Unit | 67th U.S. Colored Troops 9th Cavalry Regiment |
| Battles/wars | American Indian Wars |
| Awards | Medal of Honor |
Thomas Shaw (1846 – June 23, 1895) was a brave American soldier known as a "Buffalo Soldier". He was a member of the United States Army and received America's highest military award, the Medal of Honor. He earned this award for his actions during the Indian Wars in the western United States.
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Thomas Shaw: A Buffalo Soldier Hero
Early Life and Joining the Army
Thomas Shaw was born in 1846 in Covington, Kentucky. At that time, he was born into a system called slavery. This meant he was not free and was treated as property. His owner moved him to Missouri. From there, Thomas bravely escaped and found a recruiting station for the Union Army.
In 1864, Shaw joined the 67th U.S. Colored Troops. He decided to stay in the Army even after the American Civil War ended.
A Heroic Act
By August 12, 1881, Thomas Shaw was a Sergeant in Company K of the 9th Cavalry Regiment. On that day, his unit was involved in the Battle of Carrizo Canyon in New Mexico.
The 9th Cavalry was chasing Nana and his group of Apache warriors. Sergeant Shaw showed great bravery during this fight. Because of his actions, he was awarded the Medal of Honor nine years later, on December 7, 1890.
Life After the Army
Thomas Shaw retired from the Army in 1894. He then settled down in Rosslyn, Virginia.
He passed away in 1895. He left behind his wife and daughter. Thomas Shaw was buried with honor at Arlington National Cemetery in Arlington County, Virginia.
