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Lot #109
Andrew Johnson

Andrew Johnson posthumously promotes John Greble for meritorious service at the battle of Big Bethel

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Description

Andrew Johnson posthumously promotes John Greble for meritorious service at the battle of Big Bethel

DS as president, one page, 14.75 x 18.75, March 25, 1867. President Johnson promotes John T, Grebel to the rank of Lieutenant Colonel “for conspicuous gallantry and meritorious conduct in the Battle of Big Bethel, Virginia.” Signed at the bottom in black ink by Johnson and countersigned by Secretary of War Edwin Stanton. Triple suede matted and framed to an overall size of 25 x 29. Greble was promoted 1st lieutenant on 3 March, 1857, detailed for active duty at Fort Monroe in March, 1861, and rendered efficient service in preventing its seizure. When the disastrous expedition to Big Bethel was planned, he was unexpectedly detailed to accompany it with two guns, though in his own judgment it was ill advised and would probably prove fatal to him. When the National troops were repelled, by his admirable management of the guns he protected them from pursuit and destruction. Just at the close of the action, when he had given the orders to withdraw his guns from the field, he was struck by a rifle-ball on the right temple and instantly killed. For his bravery in the two days' action he was brevetted captain, major, and lieutenant colonel, on the day of his death. This early engagement in southeastern Virginia was one of three during June, 1861, in which the Union army cautiously felt out Confederate positions. Big Bethel caused some embarrassment for the North. In fine condition, with some handwritten text light but legible, portion of Jackson’s signature a touch light, intact seal, a couple notes and some light wrinkling. COA John Reznikoff/PSA/DNA and R&R COA. Oversized.

Auction Info

  • Auction Title:
  • Dates: #295 - Ended March 16, 2005