Griggs courier. (Cooperstown, Griggs Co., Dak. [N.D.]) 1885-1902, 1899-12-28
of Gen. Lawton, but the attack was
difficult because of the natural defenses

of Gen. Lawton, but the attack was
difficult because of the natural defenses
of the town.
Gen. Lawton was walking along the
firing line, within 800 yards of a small
sharpshooters' trench, conspicuous in
the big white helmet he always wore,
and a light yellow raincoat. He was
also easily distinguishable because of
his commanding stature.
The sharpshooters directed several
close shots, which clipped the grass
near by. His staff officers called Gen.
Lawton's attention to the danger he
was in, but he only laughed, with his
usual contempt for bullets.
Suddenly he exclaimed: 81 am shot!"
clenched his hands in a desperate effort
to stand erect, and fell into the arms
of staff officer.
Orderlies rushed across the field for
surgeons, who dashed up Immediately,
but their efforts were useless. The body
was taken to a clump of bushes and laid
upon a stretcher, the familiar white
helmet covering the face of the dead
general.
After three hours shooting the Fill
pinos were dispersed into the noun
tains. Col. Lockett took command
when Gen. Lawton fell.
Omcially Confirmed.
Washington, Dec. 20.-The war de-
partment has received the following
official confirmation of the killing of
Gen. Lawton near San Mateo, Luzon:
-"AIanila-Gen. Lawton, engaged in driv-
ing insurgents from San Mateo section Of
country northeast Of Manila. killed Instant
ly at $3.50 yesterday morning. A great loss
to US and his country. i: ,au,,.
(Signedl "OTIS."
Gen. Lawton's death was a great
shock 10 the officers of the war depart
ment, to nearly all of whom he was
known personally. Hitherto his luck in
battle had been marvellous. He had
been in hundreds of skirmishes and
midnight attacks. He was regarded as
a man of action and of splendid cour-
age, but was not considered reckless.
He never exposed his men without due
consideration of the risks and the stake.
His men knew this and would unhesi-
tatingly follow his lead under what
seemed to be the most desperate con-
ditions. The Indians came to know him
as the most active, vigilant, wary and
determined of foes, and his pursuit and
capture of Geronimo. the famous
Apache chieftain, has gone down to
history as one of the most remarkable
small force in hand.
Many Express Sorrow.
Chicago, Dec. Dispatches from
various points are laden with express
sions Of grief at the death of Gen.
Lawton and tributes to his character
and bravery as soldier. Such dis
patches are received from ex- President
Harrison, ex-Secretary Of War Alger,
Gov. Roosevelt, Gen. Charles King, Brig.
Gen. Anderson, of the department. Of
the lakes, with headquarters in this
city, and to whose division in the Phil
ippines Gen. Lawton succeeded, and
many others.
Was . Good Fishter.
[Gen. Lawton was known as good fight
er and soldier Of experience and ability.
He was born In Toledo, o., and was ap-
pointed to the army from Indiana. He
served In the union army throughout the
civil war. having entered the service az
sergeant of company =. Ninth Indiana
volunteer infantry, in April. 1851. He was
successfully promoted until in March. 1866.
he was brevetted colonel for gallant and
i merltorious services during the war. He
I entered the regular establishment in July,
| 1856, as second lieutenant Of the Forty-firs
infantry (colored), and remained with that
branch Of the army until January, 1871. In
! September. 1885. he was appointed Inspector
the opening Of the war with Spain,
President Mckinley appointed him briga-
der OF volunteers and assigned him to the
command Of = division Of the Fifth army
corps. commanded by Gen. shafter
IN July. 1891. he was chosen for the Inn