Frederick Phisterer


Frederick Phisterer was an American soldier who fought in the American Civil War. Phisterer received his country's highest award for bravery during combat, the Medal of Honor. Phisterer's medal was won for actions at the Battle of Stones River at Murfreesboro, Tennessee, now marked by the Stones River National Battlefield. He was honored with the award on December 12, 1894.
Phisterer was born in Stuttgart, Germany. He joined the Army from Medina County, Ohio, in December 1855, and served in the 3rd Artillery Regiment for 5 years. He re-enlisted with the 18th Infantry Regiment in July 1861, and was commissioned as an officer the following October. He eventually rose to the rank of Captain, and was honorably discharged in August 1870.
He was a longtime officer of the New York Militia, and played a large role in the militia's reorganization as part of the National Guard. He attained the rank of colonel, and was promoted to the brevet rank of brigadier general for his service to organize and train soldiers for the Spanish–American War. He acted as New York's Adjutant General in 1901 and 1902, and was promoted to brevet major general at his retirement as recognition of his many years of successful service.
He died in Albany, New York, and was buried at Green Lawn Cemetery, Columbus, Ohio.

Medal of Honor citation