Battle of Carrizo Canyon

Battle of Carrizo Canyon
Part of Victorio's War, Apache Wars

An Apache rifleman.
DateAugust 12, 1881
Location
Carrizo Canyon, New Mexico
Result United States victory
Belligerents
 United States Apache
Commanders and leaders
United States Capt. Charles Parker, Sgt.George Jordan Nana (chief)
Strength
19 40
Casualties and losses
2 men, 9 horses 4

The Battle of Carrizo Canyon was one of seven battles between Nana's band of Apache warriors and United States Cavalry troops in New Mexico Territory.[1]: 174–177  After the death of Victorio in 1880, Nana took over leadership of the band. Other Apaches joined this old warrior's group. On August 12, 1881, Capt. Charles Parker with 18 10th Cavalry Buffalo Soldiers were following Nana's warriors when they were ambushed in Carrizo Canyon.

Battle

Parker's small command was pinned down by 40 or more rifles. He ordered veteran Sergeant George Jordan to get to higher ground and fire down upon the Apaches. It was a fierce battle, with both sides suffering casualties. Jordan's small group was attacked but was able to hold their position and allow the troops in the canyon to retreat.[2] The Medal of Honor was awarded Sergeant Thomas Shaw[3] and Sergeant Jordan (who was also cited for his leadership at the Battle of Fort Tularosa[4]

References

  1. ^ Sweeney, Edwin R. (2012). From Chochise to Geronimo: The Chiricahua Apaches 1874-1886. Norman, OK: University of Oklahoma Press. ISBN 978-0-8061-4272-2.
  2. ^ NCO Journal-This Day in Aug 12 1881
  3. ^ Leckie, William H. (1967). The Buffalo Soldiers: A Narrative of the Negro Cavalry in the West. Norman, OK: University of Oklahoma Press. ISBN 9780806112442. LCCN 67-15571.
  4. ^ "Indian War Period Medal of Honor Recipients". Medal of Honor Citations. United States Army Center of Military History. 2005-04-19. Archived from the original on 2009-04-23. Retrieved 2007-01-15.


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