Charles Windolph is listed as a Notable burial at https://www.cem.va.gov/cems/nchp/blackhills.asp.

Windolph was born in Bergen an der Dumme, Germany, on December 9, 1851, to Joseph and Adelphina Koch Windolph.

He enlisted in the army's 2nd US Infantry on November 12, 1871. He deserted July 18, 1872, and promptly reenlisted as Charles Wrangel in 7th US Cavalry July 23, 1872. He later surrendered and was restored to duty without punishment. He was a shoemaker and did cobbler work among his comrades. Windolph was a participant in the Yellowstone Expedition of 1873 and the Black Hills Expedition in 1874.

Windolph took part in the Reno-Benteen hilltop action at the Battle of Little Bighorn, and was wounded in the buttock. He later received the Medal of Honor for his actions during that fight, specifically for providing covering fire for his comrades (including Medal of Honor recipient Peter Thompson) who went for water for the wounded on June 26, 1876. He was also awarded the Purple Heart many years later. He was discharged in 1883 as a Sergeant. 

*The preceding content is not intended as a comprehensive biography, but it highlights their significance as a result of military or civilian distinction, lasting achievements, or association with impactful national events.

CHARLES WINDOLPH

Service

INDIAN WARS

MEDAL OF HONOR

CAVALRY,

SGT

Resting Place

Mementos

Tributes

Word Cloud

Biography

Milestones

Mementos

Historical Documents

Veteran programs and services

More VA resources

Get VA updates

In crisis? Get help now

Contact us