Hazard Stevens led a life marked by significant military service and valor, earning the nation's highest military honor, the Medal of Honor, for his actions during the American Civil War. Born in Newport, Rhode Island, in 1842, Stevens was deeply connected to the Union cause, serving alongside his father, Isaac I. Stevens, who was the first governor of Washington Territory. His military career was a testament to his bravery, culminating in a distinguished
record that included being wounded in battle and achieving the rank of brevet brigadier general by the war's end. His contributions to the Union effort were recognized decades later with the prestigious award, cementing his place in American military history.
Early Service and Family Sacrifice
Hazard Stevens began his military journey in 1861, volunteering for the Union Army alongside his father. Both men served in the 79th New York Volunteer Infantry, a unit that saw considerable action during the Civil War. Stevens quickly rose through the ranks, eventually serving as a major and assistant adjutant general. His early service was not without personal cost, as he experienced the brutal realities of war firsthand. On September 1, 1862, Stevens participated in the Battle of Chantilly, a pivotal engagement where he sustained injuries. Tragically, this battle also claimed the life of his father, Isaac I. Stevens, who was then serving as a general. This profound loss and personal injury early in his military career underscored the deep sacrifices made by the Stevens family for the Union cause.
Despite the personal tragedy and his own wounds, Stevens continued his dedicated service. His commitment to the Union remained unwavering, and he demonstrated remarkable resilience in the face of adversity. The shared experience of serving with his father, and the subsequent loss, likely shaped his resolve and dedication throughout the remainder of the conflict. His early experiences on the battlefield, marked by both personal suffering and the broader struggle for national unity, laid the groundwork for the acts of heroism that would later define his military legacy.
The Valor at Fort Huger
Stevens' most notable act of bravery occurred on April 19, 1863, during the capture of Fort Huger in Virginia. As a captain and Assistant Adjutant General, he played a crucial role in the assault on the Confederate stronghold. His leadership and courage during this engagement were exemplary. Stevens gallantly led a party of Union soldiers in a direct assault on the fort, ultimately succeeding in its capture. This decisive action was a significant contribution to the Union's strategic objectives in the area and demonstrated his exceptional command under fire.
For his extraordinary heroism at Fort Huger, Hazard Stevens was awarded the Medal of Honor. The citation specifically recognized his actions, stating that he "Gallantly led a party that assaulted and captured the fort." This prestigious award, the highest military decoration in the United States, was issued to Stevens on June 13, 1894, more than three decades after the event. The recognition, though delayed, highlighted the enduring significance of his bravery and leadership during a critical moment of the war. His actions at Fort Huger exemplified the courage and determination required of Union officers in overcoming formidable Confederate defenses.
Rising Through the Ranks and Post-War Recognition
Hazard Stevens continued to serve with distinction until the war's conclusion. He was officially mustered out of the Union Army volunteers on September 19, 1865, marking the end of his active service. However, his contributions did not go unnoticed by the highest levels of government. On January 13, 1866, President Andrew Johnson nominated Stevens for appointment to the brevet grade of brigadier general of volunteers. This nomination was a testament to his consistent performance, leadership, and valor throughout the conflict.
The U.S. Senate confirmed his nomination on March 12, 1866, with his brevet rank dating back to April 2, 1865. This promotion to brevet brigadier general, a significant achievement for an officer who began his service as a volunteer, underscored the respect and recognition he had earned. Hazard Stevens' military career, spanning from 1861 to 1865, was characterized by personal sacrifice, battlefield courage, and steady advancement, culminating in the nation's highest military honor and a distinguished general officer rank. He passed away in 1918 at the age of 76, leaving behind a legacy as a true American military hero.
