William R. D. Blackwood facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
William R. D. Blackwood
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| Born | May 12, 1838 Hollywood, Ireland |
| Died | April 22, 1922 (aged 83) Philadelphia, Pennsylvania |
| Buried |
Chelten Hills Cemetery, Philadelphia
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| Allegiance |  United States of America |
| Service/ |
 United States Army |
| Years of service | 1862–1865 |
| Rank | Brevet Lieutenant Colonel |
| Unit |  48th Regiment Pennsylvania Volunteer Infantry |
| Battles/wars | Third Battle of Petersburg |
| Awards |  Medal of Honor |
Surgeon William Robert Douglas Blackwood (May 12, 1838 – April 26, 1922) was an Irish soldier. He fought bravely in the American Civil War.
Blackwood received the Medal of Honor. This is the United States' highest award for bravery in combat. He earned it for his actions during the Third Battle of Petersburg in Virginia. This important event happened on April 2, 1865. He was given the award on July 21, 1897.
Contents
Early Life and Education
William R. D. Blackwood was born in Hollywood, Ireland. His birthday was May 12, 1838.
He later moved to the United States. There, he studied medicine at the University of Pennsylvania Medical School. He finished his studies and became a doctor in 1862.
Military Service in the Civil War
In September 1862, Blackwood joined the army. He started as an Assistant Surgeon in the 149th Pennsylvania Infantry.
He later moved to the 48th Pennsylvania Infantry on April 28, 1863. There, he was promoted to Chief Surgeon for the regiment. This meant he was the main doctor for his unit.
Bravery at Petersburg
During the Third Battle of Petersburg, there was a big attack on Fort Mahone. Surgeon Blackwood showed great courage. He helped many soldiers who were badly hurt. He moved them safely away from the battlefield.
Because of his heroic actions, he was awarded the Medal of Honor. This award recognized his bravery and dedication to saving lives during the battle.
Later Life and Legacy
William R. D. Blackwood passed away in Philadelphia on April 26, 1922. He was 83 years old. His burial place is at the Chelten Hills Cemetery in Philadelphia.
Blackwood married Ida Chote Gerhart in 1874. They had four children together.
