John Whilden
Class of 1864
Gun Commander of #1 Gun Battery on Morris Island during the 9 Jan 1861 Star of The West firing, he was later referred to as \the Boy Major of the Coast Rangers\. Only 23 when promoted to the rank of Major he commanded the \Coast Rangers\ of the 23rd South Carolina Infantry at 2nd Manassas. When the unit's color bearer at that battle fell he took up the colors and personally led his regiment on four charges over six hours. On the last charge he was KIA, a hero, battle flag in hand. View artist sketch of the firing here.