William L. Heermance facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
William L. Heermance
|
|
|---|---|
 |
|
| Born | February 28, 1837 Kinderhook, New York |
| Died | February 25, 1903 (aged 65) |
| Buried | |
| Allegiance |  United States of America |
| Service/ |
 United States Army |
| Rank | Captain |
| Unit |  Company C, 6th New York Cavalry |
| Battles/wars | American Civil War Battle of Chancellorsville |
| Awards |  Medal of Honor |
William Laing Heermance (born February 28, 1837 – died February 25, 1903) 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 L. Heermance: A Civil War Hero
Early Life and Joining the War
William Heermance was born in a town called Kinderhook, New York, on February 28, 1837. When the American Civil War began, he decided to join the Union Army. The Union Army was the army of the northern states that fought to keep the country together.
Heermance became a Captain in Company C of the 6th New York Cavalry. This unit was part of the cavalry, which meant they fought on horseback.
His Brave Act at Chancellorsville
Captain Heermance showed amazing bravery on April 30, 1863. This happened during a major battle called the Battle of Chancellorsville in Chancellorsville, Virginia. His actions during this battle were so heroic that he was later given the Medal of Honor. The Medal of Honor is the highest award for bravery a soldier can receive in the U.S. military. He received this special award on March 30, 1898, many years after the war.
What is the Medal of Honor?
The Medal of Honor is given to members of the United States armed forces. It is for those who show extreme bravery and risk their own lives. This bravery must be "above and beyond the call of duty" while fighting an enemy. It is the most respected military award in the country.
Later Life and Legacy
William L. Heermance lived to be 65 years old. He passed away on February 25, 1903. He was buried at the Oakland Cemetery in Yonkers, New York. His story reminds us of the courage shown by many soldiers during the American Civil War.
