Thomas Sullivan (Medal of Honor, 1890) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Thomas Sullivan
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| Born | April 4, 1859 Ireland, County Meath |
| Died | January 10, 1940 |
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| Allegiance | United States of America |
| Service/ |
United States Army |
| Rank | Private |
| Unit | E Co. 7th U.S. Cavalry |
| Awards | Medal of Honor |
Thomas Sullivan (born April 4, 1859 – died January 10, 1940) was a brave soldier in the United States Army. He received America's highest award for military bravery, the Medal of Honor. He earned this award for his actions during the Wounded Knee event.
About Thomas Sullivan
Thomas Sullivan was born in County Meath, Ireland. When he was 28 years old, he moved to the United States. Soon after, he joined the U.S. Army. Before joining the army, he worked as a laborer.
Sullivan was quickly assigned to Troop E of the 7th Cavalry. He served with this unit for four enlistments. Later, he moved to Troop H of the 2nd Cavalry. There, he became a quartermaster sergeant. This job involved managing supplies.
He also served in the Spanish–American War. This war took him to places like Cuba and the Philippines. Thomas Sullivan served a total of 23 years in the Army. He retired as a First Sergeant from Fort Bliss.
After retiring, Sullivan went back to New Jersey. He married a woman named Ellen, who was also from Ireland. He worked different jobs, including a watchman, guard, and policeman. Thomas Sullivan passed away in 1940. He was buried in Holy Sepulchre Cemetery with his wife.
Heroism at Wounded Knee
The Wounded Knee event happened in December 1890. The 7th Cavalry was with about 350 Lakota people. They were going to the Pine Ridge Indian Reservation. On December 29, the soldiers decided to disarm the Lakota. A struggle began, and it quickly turned into a fight. The 7th Cavalry had more soldiers and better weapons. They even had powerful Hotchkiss guns.
During this event, Troop E of the 7th Cavalry came under fire. Lakota individuals had hidden in a ravine. The soldiers suffered some injuries and deaths. They needed volunteers to move to a better position. This would help them fight back.
Thomas Sullivan bravely volunteered to move to an exposed spot. He went with two other soldiers, Private Kellner and Sergeant Tritle. They drew the enemy's fire to their own position. This helped protect the main group of soldiers. Sullivan's courage in this dangerous situation earned him the Medal of Honor.
Awards and Medals
Thomas Sullivan received several awards for his long service. His most important award was the Medal of Honor. This is the highest award for bravery in the U.S. military.
He also received other medals for his service in different campaigns:
- Medal of Honor
- Indian Campaign Medal
- Philippine Campaign Medal
- Spanish War Service Medal
- Army of Cuban Occupation Medal
- Mexican Border Service Medal
