Axel H. Reed

Axel Hayford Reed was under arrest when Chickamauga began. Rather than remain in the rear, he obtained a rifle, joined the fighting, and stayed in action for two days.

Reed was born on March 13, 1835, at Hartford, Maine. He served in Company K, 2nd Minnesota Infantry, and held the rank of sergeant during the actions for which he was recognized.

At Chickamauga he left the rear, armed himself, and fought with his regiment. Later, at Missionary Ridge, he commanded his company and was among the first into the Confederate works. He was severely wounded and lost an arm, yet declined discharge and remained in service through the war.

Medal of Honor Citation (condensed)

Fought voluntarily at Chickamauga while under arrest, then led his company into the works at Missionary Ridge and was severely wounded.

Reed received the Medal of Honor on April 2, 1898. He eventually attained the rank of captain. He died on January 21, 1917, at Glencoe, Minnesota, and was buried in Mount Auburn Cemetery there.

His record is best understood through the documented service, action, and award rather than by filling gaps with unsupported detail.