William B. Hooper facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
William B. Hooper
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|---|---|
| Born | 1841 Willimantic, Connecticut |
| Died | 1870 (aged 28–29) Caldera, Chile |
| Buried | |
| Allegiance |  United States of America |
| Service/ |
 United States Army |
| Rank | Corporal |
| Unit |  Company L, 1st New Jersey Volunteer Cavalry |
| Battles/wars | American Civil War |
| Awards |  Medal of Honor |
William B. Hooper (born 1841 – died January 16, 1870) was a brave soldier who fought for the Union Army during the American Civil War. He received the highest award for military bravery in the United States, called the Medal of Honor.
Contents
William B. Hooper: A Civil War Hero
William B. Hooper was born in a town called Willimantic, Connecticut. He grew up there before joining the army. When the American Civil War began, he decided to serve his country.
Serving in the Union Army
Hooper joined the Union Army, which was the army of the northern states. He was a Corporal in Company L of the 1st New Jersey Volunteer Cavalry. This means he was a leader of a small group of soldiers who rode horses.
Earning the Medal of Honor
On March 31, 1865, Corporal Hooper showed amazing courage during a battle. This battle took place at Chamberlains Creek in Virginia. Because of his incredible bravery that day, he was given the Medal of Honor. This special award was officially given to him on July 3, 1865.
What is the Medal of Honor?
The Medal of Honor is the highest award a soldier can receive in the U.S. military. It is given to people who show extreme bravery and risk their own lives during a battle. It is a very rare and important award.
Later Life and Burial
William B. Hooper passed away when he was 29 years old. He died on January 16, 1870. He was buried in the Old Willimantic Cemetery in Windham, Connecticut. His bravery during the Civil War is remembered through his Medal of Honor.
