Llewellyn Garrish Estes (December 27, 1843 – February 21, 1905) was an American soldier who fought in the American Civil War. Estes received the country's highest award for bravery during combat, the Medal of Honor, for his action at Flint River in Georgia on August 30, 1864. He was honored with the award on August 29, 1894.[1][2]
Estes was promoted to captain in August 1863, and was appointed as assistant adjutant general the next month.[6] Assigned with Kilpatrick's cavalry to Sherman's March to the Sea, he was commended by Generals Sherman and Kilpatrick for his skill in leading small raiding parties in Georgia. Part of the advance party that reached the Atlantic coast, Estes was the first to contact the Union naval forces waiting offshore.[5] By the time he mustered out in September 1865 at the age of 21, he was a major, and had received a brevet promotion to brigadier general.[6]
The President of the United States of America, in the name of Congress, takes pleasure in presenting the Medal of Honor to Captain & Assistant Adjutant General Llewellyn Garrish Estes, United States Army, for extraordinary heroism on 30 August 1864, while serving with U.S. Volunteers, in action at Flint River, Georgia. Captain Estes voluntarily led troops in a charge over a burning bridge.[a]