William P. Hogarty facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
William P. Hogarty
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Hogarty in c. 1898
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| Born | February 16, 1840 New York, New York |
| Died | October 23, 1914 (aged 74) Stillwater, Oklahoma |
| Buried |
Quindaro Cemetery, Kansas City, Kansas
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| Allegiance |  United States |
| Service/ |
 United States Army |
| Years of service | 1861 - 1863, 1865 - 1870 |
| Rank | Second lieutenant Brevet Captain |
| Unit |  Company D, 23rd New York Infantry Regiment Battery B, 4th U.S. Artillery |
| Battles/wars | Battle of Antietam Battle of Fredericksburg American Civil War |
| Awards |  Medal of Honor |
William Patrick Hogarty (born February 16, 1840 – died October 23, 1914) was an American soldier. He bravely fought in the American Civil War, a very important time in U.S. history. For his amazing courage, Hogarty received the Medal of Honor, which is the highest award a soldier can get for bravery in combat.
His medal was given for his actions in two major battles: the Battle of Antietam in Maryland on September 17, 1862, and the Battle of Fredericksburg in Virginia on December 13, 1862. He was officially honored with this special award on June 22, 1891.
Contents
Early Life and Joining the Army
William Patrick Hogarty was born in New York City. When the American Civil War began, he was ready to serve his country. In May 1861, he joined the 23rd New York Infantry from Elmira, New York. This was a group of soldiers from New York who fought for the Union (the northern states).
Fighting for the Union
Hogarty quickly became part of the war effort. He served with his regiment in some of the most important and difficult battles of the Civil War. His bravery during these intense fights would later earn him the nation's highest military honor.
Heroic Actions in Battle
William Hogarty showed incredible courage during two major battles of the Civil War. His actions helped his fellow soldiers and made a big difference in these fights.
Battle of Antietam: A Turning Point
On September 17, 1862, Hogarty fought in the Battle of Antietam in Maryland. This was one of the bloodiest single-day battles in American history. Soldiers faced very dangerous conditions. Hogarty's bravery during this intense battle was truly remarkable.
Battle of Fredericksburg: Facing Challenges
Later that year, on December 13, 1862, Hogarty was part of the Battle of Fredericksburg in Virginia. This battle was also very difficult, with many challenges for the Union army. Despite the dangers, Hogarty continued to show great courage and dedication.
A Special Award: The Medal of Honor
For his outstanding bravery in both the Battle of Antietam and the Battle of Fredericksburg, William Hogarty was awarded the Medal of Honor. This medal is given to members of the United States Armed Forces who show extreme courage and risk their lives above and beyond the call of duty. It is the highest military honor in the U.S.
Receiving the Honor
It took some time for Hogarty's heroic actions to be fully recognized. He was officially honored with the Medal of Honor on June 22, 1891, many years after the battles took place. This award is a lasting tribute to his bravery and sacrifice.
Life After the War
William Hogarty was discharged from the 23rd New York Infantry in January 1863. However, his service to the country was not over.
Continuing to Serve
Two years later, in 1865, he was commissioned as a second lieutenant with the Veteran Reserve Corps. This group was made up of soldiers who had been injured or had disabilities but could still serve in other ways. Even with a disability, Hogarty continued to serve in the Army until he retired in December 1870. His dedication showed his strong commitment to his country.
