News:
Now in the library; "Genealogy of the Cooke and Cook family". New under the Moments in Time section: my "I Love Me Wall". (purely self-indulgent, I know.)
honoring our relatives that have served this country. This list is "in progress" and by no means comlete. If you feel we've overlooked someone please contact us using the "Suggest" tab on the top of their page.
At the age of seventeen, became a member of the staff of General Taylor of the Confederate army. He was exempted from regular service in order to oversee the Salt mining business which was a critical need for the Confederacy.
Leonard served as a landsman in the Navy. He died in service at Chelsea Naval Hospital. A pension request was made on behalf of his mother but it was rejected. The government claimed he died of a pre-existing condition and that his mother was not relying on him financially.
Leonard was the only male child old enough to support his mother. A number of people who knew him testified that he was healthy before his service. In spite of his father's land holdings he owed more money that it was worth. The government did not change it's position.
In 1857, he enlisted in the 5th U. S. cavalry. In 1861, the regiment was sent to Washington; he served with the Army of the Potomac until 1862, when his term expired. He reenlisted in the 3rd Rhode Island Cavalry as lieutenant. Later he was promoted to captain. He mustered out January 25, 1866.
From the book "History of the Town Of Stonington" 1900, he was "fearfully" wounded at the Fort Griswold massacre. Other sources confirm that he lost an eye.
He was the commander of the 102nd New York Volunteer Infantry. he was severely wounded at the Battle of Chancellorsville and, at the Battle of Lookout Mountain his right leg had to be amputated.