About the Author
George W. Yates was born in New York. He was living in Detroit, Michigan when he enlisted as a Private in the 4th Michigan Infantry Company A on June 20, 1861 at Adrian, Michigan. He was mustered into service that same day at the age of 22. Yates was promoted to Quartermaster Sergeant on February 28, 1862 and then to 1st Lieutenant and Adjutant on September 26. From November 10 to March 1863, Yates was on Colonel Jacob B. Sweetzer staff as Assistant Adjutant General. He was also on the staff of Colonel James McQuade from March to June and on General Alfred Pleasonton’s staff from June to April 1864. Yates was honorably discharged on June 29 at Detroit, Michigan. On August 24, he mustered into the 45th Missouri Infantry and was promoted to 1st Lieutenant and Adjutant. He was discharged for promotion to Captain in the 13th Missouri Infantry on September 22. His other promotions were to Major by Brevet and Lieutenant Colonel by Brevet, both occurring on March 13, 1865. George W. Yates was discharged from service on January 11, 1866. He had subsequent service in the United States Army from March 26 until his death. He died in action against the Sioux Indians on June 25, 1876 at Little Big Horn River, Montana.Documents for this Author: