Patrick Thomas Leonard

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

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

Marriage and Family

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

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.^[2]

Death and legacy

Leonard died on March 1, 1905 and was buried in Mount Calvary Cemetery, Lansing, Kansas.^[1][2]

Medal of Honor citation

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.^[3]

See also

• List of Medal of Honor recipients
• List of Medal of Honor recipients for the Indian Wars

References

 This article incorporates public domain material from websites or documents of the United States Army Center of Military History.