Military & Warriors · 21st Century
General John Sedgwick’s Last Words
“Honor the fallen.”— General John Sedgwick, Unknown
Who Was General John Sedgwick?
John Sedgwick was an American military officer who served as a major general in the Union Army during the American Civil War. He was one of the highest-ranking Union officers to be killed in the war, along with Major Generals James B. McPherson, Joseph K. Mansfield and John F.
The Final Moments
The circumstances surrounding General John Sedgwick's final moments are not fully documented in available historical records.
Are These Words Verified?
General Sedgwick's actual famous last words in 1864 were 'They couldn't hit an elephant at this distance' (said mockingly about enemy sharpshooters before being fatally shot). 'Honor the fallen' is not documented in any contemporary Civil War records.
Sources
- archive Official Records of the War of the Rebellion
- firsthand Eyewitness accounts from Battle of Spotsylvania
Legacy
General John Sedgwick's story continues to be discussed by historians and enthusiasts.
Frequently Asked Questions
What were General John Sedgwick’s last words?
“Honor the fallen.”
How did General John Sedgwick die?
General John Sedgwick died on Unknown. Cause of death: Battle Or Natural Causes.
Were General John Sedgwick’s last words documented?
General Sedgwick's actual famous last words in 1864 were 'They couldn't hit an elephant at this distance' (said mockingly about enemy sharpshooters before being fatally shot). 'Honor the fallen' is not documented in any contemporary Civil War records.
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