Patrick Thomas Leonard

Patrick Thomas Leonard Sr.
Born1828
Roadford, County Clare, Ireland
DiedMarch 1, 1905 (aged 76–77)
AllegianceUnited States of America
Service / branchUnited States Army
RankSergeant
UnitCompany A, 23d U.S. Infantry
Battles / warsIndian Wars
AwardsMedal of Honor

Patrick Thomas Leonard (1828 – March 1, 1905) was a United States Army sergeant who received the Medal of Honor during the Indian Wars.[1] Until 1984, it was believed that Leonard was a double recipient of the Medal of Honor.[1] However, another Irishman, Patrick James Leonard had also received the Medal of Honor.

Early life and education

[edit]

Leonard was born in Broadford, County Clare, Ireland,[1] to John and Mary Leonard.

Marriage and Family

[edit]

Patrick Thomas Leonard married Ellen Connaughton. Together they had five children: Mary, Patrick Thomas Leonard Jr., Margaret, John (Ireland) and Ellen M. (New York).

Military career

[edit]

Leonard enlisted at Camp Three Forks, Idaho Territory, and was stationed there during the late 1860s and early 1870s.[1] His actions as a corporal at Grace Creek near Fort Hartsuff, Nebraska on April 28, 1876, lead to him being awarded the Medal of Honor on August 26, 1876.[1] By the time of his death, he had been promoted to sergeant, as can be seen on his gravestone.

Death and legacy

[edit]

Leonard died on March 1, 1905, and was buried in Mount Calvary Cemetery, Lansing, Kansas.[1]

Medal of Honor citation

[edit]

Rank and organization: Corporal, Company A, 23d U.S. Infantry. Place and date: Near Fort Hartsuff, Nebr., April 28, 1876. Entered service at:------. Birth: Ireland. Date of issue: August 26, 1876.

Citation:

Gallantry in charge on hostile Sioux.[2]

See also

[edit]

References

[edit]
Public Domain This article incorporates public domain material from websites or documents of the United States Army Center of Military History.
  1. ^ a b c d e f "Idaho's Medal of Honor recipients". Archived from the original on 2008-04-10. Retrieved 2008-04-27.
  2. ^ "Indian Wars Medals of Honor". Archived from the original on 2013-08-03. Retrieved 2008-04-27.