Unveiling a Forgotten Hero: J.R. Kealoha and His Journey
Imagine stepping into history, where the echoes of battles long past still resonate through time. Today, we delve into the story of J.R. Kealoha, a Hawaiian soldier who fought in the American Civil War, and explore why his legacy has been so long forgotten.
The Call to Arms
When the American Civil War broke out, it was like a siren call for many Native Hawaiians. King Kamehameha IV declared neutrality in 1861, but this didn’t stop J.R. Kealoha from answering the call. He enlisted in 1864 and joined the 41st USCT regiment, becoming part of a larger group of over one hundred Native Hawaiians who fought for the Union.
A Soldier’s Journey
Imagine being thrust into the heart of battle. For Kealoha, this meant participating in the siege of Petersburg from October 1864 to April 1865. He met Colonel Samuel Chapman Armstrong and witnessed one of the most significant moments of the war: General Robert E. Lee’s surrender at Appomattox Court House on April 9, 1865.
Returning Home
After the war ended, Kealoha returned to Hawaii, where he lived out his remaining years without recognition for his service until recent efforts to honor him. He died on March 5, 1877, and was buried in an unmarked grave.
A Legacy Rediscovered
It’s a poignant reminder of how history can be rewritten over time. In 2014, Anita Manning led the effort to place a grave marker at Kealoha’s burial site. The dedication ceremony was a powerful moment, with military honors and a gun salute by Civil War re-enactors.
More Than Just Names
Kealoha is one of 48 identified Native Hawaiian combatants from the American Civil War, but he stands out as the only known Hawaiian buried in Hawaii whose gravesite is marked. His story represents a broader narrative of men who fought for their beliefs and were later forgotten.
A Monument to Remember
On October 25, 2014, Kealoha’s grave was finally honored with a marker inscribed with his name, regiment, death date, and the words ‘He Koa Hanohano, a brave and honorable soldier.’
A Call to Remember
As we look back at J.R. Kealoha’s story, it serves as a reminder of the sacrifices made by those who fought in the American Civil War, including Native Hawaiians like him. His journey from enlistment to burial site is a testament to the enduring impact of war and the importance of remembering our heroes.
Kealoha’s story is a powerful reminder of the human cost of war and the importance of honoring those who serve. As we continue to explore and remember our history, let us not forget the brave souls like J.R. Kealoha who fought for their beliefs and deserve recognition.
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This page is based on the article J. R. Kealoha published in Wikipedia (retrieved on March 11, 2025) and was automatically summarized using artificial intelligence.
