Richard Henry Rush

Richard Henry Rush (January 14, 1825 - October 17, 1893) was an American military officer who served in the United States Army during the Mexican-American War and the Union Army during the American Civil War. He mustered and served as colonel in the 6th Pennsylvania Cavalry Regiment (known as Rush's Lancers) from October 1861 to September 1862.

Early life and education Rush was born on January 14, 1825, in London, England, He was born in London while his father served as minister to the Court of St. James's. Both his maternal and paternal grandfathers, Benjamin Rush and Richard Stockton, were signers of the United States Declaration of Independence. He attended the United States Military Academy and graduated 26th out of 59 students in 1846. His fellow graduates included future Civil War leaders from both sides of the war including A.P. Hill, Stonewall Jackson, George B. McClellan, George Pickett and George Stoneman. He resigned his commission on July 1, 1854. as the 6th Pennsylvania Cavalry Regiment. During the Maryland campaign, he led the third brigade of the cavalry division under brigadier general Alfred Pleasonton. He received battle honors for service at the Battle of Hanover Court House, the Battle of Gaines' Mill, the Battle of White Oak Swamp, the Battle of South Mountain, and the Battle of Antietam. He took sick leave from the regiment on April 25, 1863, due to a relapse of malaria contracted during the Mexican-American War. Temporary command of the regiment was given to Robert Murray Morris. Despite being on sick leave, Rush was officially listed as colonel for the regiment until September 29, 1863, when command was given to Charles L. Leiper.

Rush was seconded to the Provost Marshal General's Bureau from 10 May – 10 November 1863. and was interred at Laurel Hill Cemetery.

Personal life He was married twice and had six children.