Outstanding Civil War Letter: "I am asking for a Medal of Honor..."

This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 8/31/2004

A Union Veteran Asks for a Medal of Honor, "S" Co., 18th Regt. Penn. Vol. Cavalry, Washington, D.C., Choice Very Fine. Autograph Letter, 8" x 5," lined, 4-page integral sheet, no date, Washington, D.C., signed by Thomas A. FitzPatrick, who was a soldier in "S" Co., 18th Regt., PA Vol. Cavalry. Apparently FitzPatrick performed heroically in battles at Cold Harbor, at Strawberry Hill in Richmond, and at White Oak Swamp--where he was shot in the shoulder and "cripaled." Writing to a friend from his regiment named "Will," FitzPatrick goes into great detail about why he is petitioning the War Department for the Medal of Honor. In part: "...I am asking for a Medal of Honor and as you know, somthing [sic] of my conduct. as a soldier, I want you to send me your affidavit, Edy McCan, and others of the company or Regt, of my Gallantry Cole Harber Where I would not surender. And saved Gen Master Golden of been captured. Also on Strawberry Hill in frunt of Richmond -- where the Col. asked for Vol.teers to go out and see where the batteries and what was suporting the same. Where I got a spent ball in the left sholder. And make a statement in regard to me commanding company at white oak swamp after the Lieut. McCormic was killed & where I was wounded. And you can sware to my deed as of gallantry as the comd. officer asked the govener of Pension to Commission as Lieut. in the 18th Regt. Pa. Vol. Cav. My discharge states of me, as a meritous solder. Which was sent from the Regt to the War Department. You know I was cripaled at White Oak Swamp whilst comd. "S" Company 18th Pa. Vol. Cav. I will close hoping to here from you on recpt. I am as ever your true friend T[homas] A FitzPatrick... / Seaton House / Pension Office / Washington D.C." Lightly toned page, minor soiling, small edge splits, but legible dark brown ink handwriting. Great content!

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