Joseph Burger (Medal of Honor)

Joseph Burger
Born April 16, 1848
Switzerland
Died January 3, 1921 (aged 72)
Minnesota
Buried at Oakland Cemetery, Saint Paul, Minnesota
Allegiance  United States of America
Service/branch  United States Army
Rank Private
Unit Minnesota 2nd Minnesota Volunteer Infantry
Awards Medal of Honor

Private Joseph Burger (April 16, 1848 to January 3, 1921) was a Swiss German soldier who fought in the American Civil War. Burger received the United States' highest award for bravery during combat, the Medal of Honor, for heroism during combat at Nolensville, Tennessee on 15 February 1863, when Burger was 14 years of age. He was honored with the award on 11 September 1897.[1][2][3]

Biography

Burger was born in Switzerland on 16 April 1848. He emigrated with his parents to the United States as an infant. He was orphaned at age 6, following the death of his parents from cholera.[4] He enlisted into the 2nd Minnesota Infantry. He died on 3 January 1921 and his remains are interred at the Oakland Cemetery in Minnesota. His grandson, Warren Burger served as Chief Justice of the United States from 1969 to 1986.

Medal of Honor citation

Was one of a detachment of 16 men who heroically defended a wagon train against the attack of 125 cavalry, repulsed the attack and saved the train.[1][2]

See also

References

  1. ↑ 1.0 1.1 "Civil War (A-L) Medal of Honor Recipients". Retrieved 24 November 2013.
  2. ↑ 2.0 2.1 "Joseph Burger". Retrieved 24 November 2013.
  3. ↑ "U.S. Army Medal of Honor Recipients". Retrieved 24 November 2013.
  4. ↑ http://www.mankatofreepress.com/local/x461202417/Young-Civil-War-soldier-made-lasting-impression

External links