William G. Austin facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
William G. Austin
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| Born | January 6, 1868 Galveston, Texas, United States |
| Died | July 15, 1929 (aged 61) Los Altos, California, United States |
| Place of burial |
Cremated
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| Allegiance | United States of America |
| Service/ |
United States Army |
| Years of service | 1887–1892, 1898 |
| Rank | Colonel |
| Unit | E Troop, 7th U.S. Cavalry |
| Commands held | 302nd Stevedore Regiment |
| Battles/wars | Indian Wars Spanish–American War |
| Awards | Medal of Honor |
William Grafton Austin (born January 6, 1868 – died July 15, 1929) was a brave soldier and officer in the United States Army. He was part of the famous 7th Cavalry Regiment. Austin fought during the American Indian Wars. He earned the highest military award, the Medal of Honor. He received it for his amazing courage at the Wounded Knee Massacre. This important event happened on December 29, 1890.
Contents
Early Life and Military Service
William G. Austin was born on January 6, 1868. He was born in either Grimes County or Galveston, Texas. At 19 years old, he joined the United States Army. This was on January 24, 1887, in New York City. He became a soldier in E Troop of the 7th Cavalry Regiment.
The Battle of Wounded Knee
Austin fought in the Battle of Wounded Knee. This battle took place on December 29, 1890. For his bravery, he received the Medal of Honor. This special award was given to him on June 17, 1891. He was honored for helping his fellow soldiers. He directed their fire when enemies were hidden. He worked hard to force the enemy out. Austin left the army as a sergeant on January 23, 1892. He was stationed at Fort Riley, Kansas at that time.
Life After the Army
After leaving the military, Austin moved to Savannah, Georgia. There, he worked in the cotton business. In 1894, he joined the Savannah Volunteer Guards. He rose through the ranks quickly. He became a captain of Company A.
Serving in the Spanish-American War
As a captain, Austin led his company in the Spanish–American War. They were part of the Second Georgia Regiment of Volunteers. After this war, Austin became the Chief of Police in Savannah. Later, he owned a car dealership.
World War I and Later Years
During World War I, Austin returned to military service. He was appointed to lead the 302nd Stevedore Regiment. In 1919, he was a colonel in the Officers' Reserve Corps. He was part of the quartermaster section in California. Austin later retired in Palo Alto, California. He passed away there on July 15, 1929.
