Joseph A. Sladen

Joseph A. Sladen (U.S. Army Medal of Honor recipient)

Joseph A. Sladen
Born	April 9, 1841 Oxford, New York
Died	June 26, 1911 Portland, Oregon
Buried	Arlington National Cemetery
Allegiance	United States of America
Service/branch	United States Army
Years of service	1861–1901
Rank	Lieutenant Colonel
Unit	21st Infantry Regiment
Battles/wars	American Civil War
Awards	Medal of Honor

Joseph Alfred Sladen (April 9, 1841 – June 26, 1911) was an officer in the United States Army who received the Medal of Honor for his actions during the American Civil War. He later served in various capacities, including as an aide to General Oliver Otis Howard.

Early life

Joseph A. Sladen was born in Oxford, New York, on April 9, 1841. He was the son of John Sladen and Mary Ann Sladen. He attended local schools and worked on the family farm before enlisting in the Union Army at the outbreak of the American Civil War.

Military career

Sladen enlisted in the Union Army in 1861 and was assigned to the 33rd New York Volunteer Infantry Regiment. He participated in several key battles, including the Battle of Antietam and the Battle of Gettysburg. His bravery and leadership earned him a commission as a second lieutenant in the 21st Infantry Regiment.

Medal of Honor

Sladen received the Medal of Honor for his actions on May 3, 1863, during the Battle of Chancellorsville. His citation reads: "For extraordinary heroism on 3 May 1863, in action at Chancellorsville, Virginia. Lieutenant Sladen voluntarily exposed himself to heavy fire to carry messages and assist in rallying troops during a critical moment in the battle."

Post-war service

After the war, Sladen continued his military career. He served as an aide to General Oliver Otis Howard during the Nez Perce War and was involved in various military campaigns in the American West. He retired from the United States Army in 1901 with the rank of Lieutenant Colonel.

Later life and death

After retiring from the military, Sladen settled in Portland, Oregon, where he lived until his death on June 26, 1911. He was buried with full military honors at Arlington National Cemetery.

Legacy

Joseph A. Sladen is remembered for his bravery and dedication to his country. His service during the American Civil War and subsequent military career exemplify the qualities of a distinguished soldier.

See also

• List of American Civil War Medal of Honor recipients
• Battle of Chancellorsville
• Oliver Otis Howard

External links

• [Link to related internal page]