DEATH OF FRANK TAGUE

DEATH OF FRANK TAGUE

Captain Brownell Writes How He Met His Death in Action

East Fairfield, Aug. 9. - The details of the death of private Frank J. Tague, of Company D, U.S. infantry, have been received here by John Tague father of the soldier. Tague was killed in the Philippines June 10. Capt. C. M. Brownell's letter follows:

Banate, Island of Panay, P.I.
June 11, 1900

Mr. John Tague, Fairfield, Vt.:

My Dear Sir - It is with a feeling of great sadness that I am obliged to inform you of the death of your son, Private Frank J. Tague, who was killed in action near Anilao, Panay, P.I., on June 10, 1900. A platoon of this company was returning from Dumangar, Panay, P.I., to which place they had been sent as reinforcements, as the insurgents were known to be gathering in that vicinity in large numbers. On the afternoon and night of June 6 and morning of June 7, the insurgents made a desperate but unsuccessful attempt to capture the town and garrison.

During this engagement Private Tague conducted himself coolly and courageously, without the least fear or hesitation. During the forenoon of the 7th a successful assault was made on the enemy's trenches, during which Corporal A. M. Dennehy, of this company, was instantly killed, but Private Tague escaped injury. On the morning of June 10 the enemy being completely routed and the platoon of Company D being no longer required, was ordered back to Banate to rejoin the company.

On the return Private Tague was one of the men in advance of the column sent on ahead to form an advance guard and protect the column from surprise. While crossing a partially destroyed bridge over a deep water course the advance guard was ambushed and at the first volley fired by the enemy Private Tague was killed. The column was immediately deployed in battle line and nine of the insurgents were killed and many wounded, the rest scattering in all directions, escaped.

The body was brought to Banate, where a military funeral was held, the coffin draped with the United States colors, borne by six of his comrades, was followed to the grave by the company and sadly consigned to the grave. Three volleys were fired and taps sounded.

Private Tague was one of the bravest men in the company and his death is keenly felt by his officers and comrades. He was an excellent soldier and I trust it will be a comfort to you to know of the esteem in which he was held. At no distant date the United States government will remove the body to the United States and I shall give my personal attention to the removal and see that the casket is properly marked for identification.

I wish that I might add something of comfort to you and his family and friends and beg you will accept my sincere and heartfelt sympathy in your terrible loss and that you will be comforted by the thought that he was a brave soldier and gave his life in performance of duty.

With my kindest regards, I am,

Very respectfully yours,

C. M. BROWNELL,

Capt. 26th Infantry, U.S.V., Commanding Company D

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