Name James Drake | ||
Born March 25, 1837Washington Valley, New Jersey ( 1837-03-25 ) Service/branch United States ArmyNew Jersey National Guard Unit Company D, 9th New Jersey Volunteer Infantry | ||
James Madison Drake (March 25, 1837 to November 28, 1913) was an American soldier who fought in the American Civil War. Drake received the country's highest award for bravery during combat, the Medal of Honor, for his action during the Battle of Port Walthall Junction in Virginia on 6 May 1864. He was honored with the award on 3 March 1873.
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Biography
Drake was born in the Washington Valley in New Jersey on 25 March 1837. He joined the 9th New Jersey Infantry in July 1861. After the war, he served in the New Jersey National Guard, rising to the rank of Colonel. He also worked as a newspaper publisher and author in Elizabeth, New Jersey Drake died on 28 November 1913 and his remains are interred at the Evergreen Cemetery in New Jersey.
Medal of Honor citation
Commanded the skirmish line in the advance and held his position all day and during the night.