Dedicated: June 2, 1886.
Location: Codori Thicket. Indicates spot where Colonel George Willard was killed on the afternoon of July 2, 1863.
Description: Granite marker has a rough cut base, sides, and rear with a smooth face with a polished inscribed area. Erected by the survivors of the 125th New York Infantry to honor where their brigade commander fell.
About Colonel George Lamb Willard
Colonel George Willard was born on August 15, 1827 in New York City. In 1847 he enlisted in the 15th U.S. Infantry and served in the Mexican-American War, rising to the rank of sergeant. He stayed in the army and reached the rank of captain.
In 1862, Willard accepted command of the 125th New York Infantry as its colonel. Along with his command, he was part of the garrison captured at Harper’s Ferry. This unit was paroled and became known as the Harper’s Ferry Brigade in the Army of the Potomac.
On the afternoon of July 2, Hancock led’s Willard’s brigade toward a breakthrough made by Barksdale’s and Wilcox’s Brigades. Shouting, “Remember Harper’s Ferry,” the men charged into the Codori thicket. Willard was killed leading his men as they checked the Confederate attack, decapitated by an artillery shell.
After the battle, his body was recovered and transported back to his family. Willard is buried in Troy, Rensselaer County, New York in Oakwood Cemetery. He is buried beside his wife, who survived him until 1888.
Other Related Monuments
War Department Monument | 125th New York Monument | Advanced Position of Brigade