The War
Johnston enlisted as a drummer in Company D, 3d Vermont Infantry Regiment on May 1, 1862 and was mustered into United States service same day. His father, William Johnston, was a member of Company B of the same regiment.
Johnston's first fight was at Lee's Mill, Virginia, on April 16, 1862.
During his next campaign, the Seven Days Battles from June 25 to July 1, 1862, Johnston was cited for bravery.
During that retreat many men threw away all their equipment so they would have less weight to carry. Johnston, however, retained his drum and brought it safely to Harrison's Landing. There, he had the honor of drumming for the division parade, he being the only drummer boy to bring his instrument off the battlefields. Johnston's division commander noted this fact and included them in his report. President Lincoln heard the story and wrote Secretary of War Edwin M. Stanton, suggesting the youth be given a medal. Stanton agreed, and Willie Johnston was presented his Medal of Honor September 16, 1863, at the age of 13, for a deed performed when he was but 11 years of age.
This was the second Medal of Honor ever awarded. Secretary Stanton presented the actual award.
Johnston re-enlisted at Brandy Station, Va. on February 15, 1864. He transferred to Company H, February 15, 1864, and then became Drum Major of the 20th Regiment of Veteran Reserve Corps. He was mustered out of service on December 30, 1864.
Nothing is known of his life after his discharge from the Army.
Read more about this topic: Willie Johnston (Medal Of Honor)
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