Emily Flores
Heroism doesn’t wait for adulthood. Throughout American history, children have stepped into war with courage that defies their age. Some carried rifles, others bugles, but all faced real danger like all real soldiers do. These young fighters didn’t just witness history—they helped shape it, proving that bravery has little to do with age and everything to do with resolve.
Johnny Clem (Age 9)
At just nine, Johnny Clem left home and joined the Union Army as a drummer boy. He gained fame after shooting a Confederate officer who demanded his surrender. By 12, he was promoted to sergeant—the youngest in Army history—and his daring and youth made him a Civil War legend.
Bugler Willie Johnston (Age 11)
Willie Johnston’s discipline during the Union retreat from the Seven Days Battles set him apart. At only 11, he kept his bugle when others discarded their gear. His dedication earned the attention of General McClellan, and Johnston became the youngest Medal of Honor recipient in U.S. military history.
Edward Black (Age 8)
Edward Black holds the distinction of being the youngest Union soldier, enlisting at just eight years old. Alongside his twin brother, he served in the 21st Indiana Infantry. The child was captured and released but later reenlisted despite his age. A photo of him in uniform became an enduring reminder of child soldiers.
Calvin Graham (Age 12)
This young chap also lied about his age to join the U.S. Navy during WWII at just 12. He fought at Guadalcanal and was wounded by enemy fire. Calvin received the Bronze Star and Purple Heart for his bravery. It took decades for his underage service to be officially acknowledged.
William Black (Age 12)
Twelve-year-old William Black was wounded while serving with the Union Army in the Civil War. A shell explosion shattered his arm and hand, making him the youngest U.S. combat casualty. Government records and pension files later confirmed his participation and injury. His story highlights the risks even the youngest soldiers faced.
Jack Lucas (Age 14)
This fourteen-year-old forged enlistment papers to join the Marines in World War II. At 17, he fought at Iwo Jima, jumping on two grenades to save others. However, he survived against all odds and received the Medal of Honor—his true age revealed only afterward.
Charles King (Age 12)
Though not a combatant, twelve-year-old Charles King experienced the violence of war up close. The youngster joined the Union Army as a drummer and saw action at Gettysburg. Later in life, he became a teacher and writer with childhood diaries that provide a rare, personal view of the Civil War.
James H. Harris (Age 14)
The boy’s post-conflict pension files confirm his age and combat service. At 14, James Harris joined the U.S. Colored Troops during the Civil War. Though assigned to labor early on, he eventually fought in the Siege of Petersburg. Harris represents the many young Black soldiers who fought for freedom.
John Cook (Age 15)
The official citation noted Cook’s remarkable youth during the Battle of Antietam. This gallant soldier took up arms when his unit came under fire. He fought alongside adult soldiers and carried the wounded to safety. Cook’s bravery earned him the Medal of Honor.
Andrew Jackson (Age 13)
Before becoming the 7th U.S. President, Jackson served as a courier during the Revolutionary War at just 13. He was subjected to violence and held as a prisoner of war. Captured by the British, he famously refused to polish a British officer’s boots and was slashed with a sword, which gave him lifelong scars.