The soldier who fought for veterans' rights and got a day named after him

General John A. Logan, a native of Illinois, initially studied law at the University of Louisville. However, at the outset of the Civil War, he experienced a change of heart and switched his political allegiance to support the Union cause. Born a Democrat, he gained recognition for his courage and smarts, serving as a loyal and effective Union general. During the Siege of Vicksburg in 1863, he led a daring attack, which played a crucial role in the Union's victory.

For his efforts, he was promoted to the rank of Brigadier General and temporarily served as the Military Governor of Vicksburg. However, he was removed from command under the orders of General Oliver O. Howard. Undeterred, Logan continued his political career and joined the Republicans, serving as a congressman for the next two decades. In his political career, he played a significant role in the establishment of Memorial Day, which honors and remembers deceased military personnel.

Today, he is remembered for these accomplishments, and a statue of him stands in Washington, D.C, commissioned by the Grand Army of the Republic and the Society of the Army of the Tennessee.

Sources: Wikipedia, OpenStreetMap, Wikidata, Wikimedia Commons