Join us in honoring the extraordinary life of William Henry Harrison Reddick, a true hero from our community. From his humble beginnings in Locust Grove to his acts of bravery during the American Civil War, William’s legacy continues to inspire us all.
William’s journey began on September 18, 1840, in Locust Grove, Ohio, and tragically ended at the age of 63 on November 8, 1903, in Muscatine, Iowa. He rests in peace at the Lettsville Cemetery in Letts, Iowa.
William H. H. Reddick answered the call to duty by enlisting with the 33rd Ohio Infantry on August 18, 1861. His valor shone brightly during the Andrews Raid, also known as the Great Locomotive Chase, where he demonstrated extraordinary heroism. Despite the mission’s ultimate failure, William’s bravery stood out, leading to his imprisonment in Atlanta. Despite facing captivity and adversity, William’s courage never wavered. His steadfastness earned him the Medal of Honor, becoming one of the first recipients of this prestigious accolade.
On March 25, 1863, William was awarded the Medal of Honor for his exceptional actions during April 1862. His citation reads as follows:
“The President of the United States of America, in the name of Congress, takes pleasure in presenting the Medal of Honor to Corporal William Henry Harrison Reddick, United States Army, for extraordinary heroism on April, 1862, while serving with Company G, 21st Ohio Infantry, in action during the Andrew’s Raid in Georgia. Corporal Reddick was one of the 19 of 22 men (including two civilians) who, by direction of General Mitchell (or Buell), penetrated nearly 200 miles south into enemy territory and captured a railroad train at Big Shanty, Georgia, in an attempt to destroy the bridges and tracks between Chattanooga and Atlanta.”
William Reddick’s valorous deeds during the Civil War exemplify the true spirit of heroism. He was not only a brave soldier but also a devoted family man. He married Rachel Ann Stahl in Decatur, Illinois, on March 6, 1864, and together they raised nine children in Louisa County, Iowa, where they settled after the war.
Let us always remember and honor the legacy of William Henry Harrison Reddick, a beacon of courage and sacrifice.
