Charles M. Betts

Charles Malone Betts (August 9, 1838 – November 10, 1905) was an American military officer who served as lieutenant colonel in the Union army during the American Civil War. He was awarded the Medal of Honor on October 10, 1892, for his actions during the war on April 19, 1865, when he led his regiment to charge and capture a South Carolina cavalry battalion.

He owned a wholesale lumber company and served as a Republican member of the Pennsylvania House of Representatives from 1885 to 1888.

Early life and education Betts was born on August 9, 1838, Warminster Township, Pennsylvania to 1861.

Military career At the outbreak of the Civil War he was commissioned lieutenant by Governor Andrew Gregg Curtin of Company D of the Blues Reserves, a military company formed for the home defense of Philadelphia. He was mustered out of service on June 21, 1865, along with his regiment.

He was a member of the Pennsylvania Commandery, Military Order of the Loyal Legion of the United States and served on the council for three years. He remained active in the Grand Army of the Republic and served as president of Post 2 Philadelphia.

Personal life He married Louisa G. Hance on May 3, 1866, and together they had five children.

Medal of Honor citation