"Killed in Battle"

 

Class II: Killed in Battle

The Class II medals are a powerful reminder of the sacrifices made by soldiers in the line of duty. The battle scene depicted on the medals is both inspiring and harrowing, capturing the chaos and brutality of war.

The mounted officer with sword drawn represents the courage and leadership of those who have given their lives for their country. The charging soldiers with fixed bayonets and flag flying represent the determination and patriotism of the American fighting force. The dismounted cannon, dead bodies, and fleeing troops represent the terrible cost of war.

Class I: Killed in Action

The Class I medals are similar to the Class II medals, but they show a single soldier standing at attention with a flag flying behind him.

Class III: For Liberty

The Class III medals are awarded to soldiers who died of wounds received in battle. They feature a catafalque with the words "Died in the Defence of his Country" inscribed on it. To the right of the catafalque is a draped figure of Liberty holding a drum, and to the left is a soldier with his right arm in a sling.

All Three Classes

All three classes of medals are awarded to the next of kin of the deceased soldier. They are a tangible reminder of the sacrifice made by the soldier and a symbol of the nation's gratitude.

Conclusion

The Class II, I, and III medals are a fitting tribute to those who have given their lives for their country. They are a reminder of the sacrifices made by American soldiers and the terrible cost of war.

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Class III -- "For Liberty" -- medals are awarded to officers and soldiers who have died of disease and wounds received in battle. The medals feature a catafalque with the words "Died in the Defence of his Country" inscribed on it. To the right of the catafalque is a draped figure of Liberty holding a drum, and to the left is a soldier with his right arm in a sling.

The reverse of all three medals has a wreath of laurel inscribed with the words "Presented by the State of West Virginia" and the name "A Demarest, N.Y." All three medals are suspended from a bronzed pin with a scroll on which the words of the classification of the medal are inscribed. Attached to the scroll are the letters WV, interlaced, and a red, white, and blue ribbon one-eighth inch wide by four inches long.

In sunken letters in the milling edge of each medal is the soldier's name, rank, company, and regiment.

The Class III -- "For Liberty" -- medals are a fitting tribute to those who have made the ultimate sacrifice for their country. They are a reminder of the cost of war and the importance of peace.