Suspension Identification Disk with Stamped Battle Honors, and Kearney profile. ...

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Suspension Identification Disk with Stamped Battle Honors, and Kearney profile. This commercially produced, gray metal identification badge features a raised profile of "Maj. Gen. Kearney" in the shield at the top. Above his head is a small square showing the remnants of red enamel, signifying the "red patch" badge he ordered his men to wear (which thus inspired the use of corps insignia in the Union Army). Suspended from it by way of two rotating links is a 1 ¼" circular disk on which is stamped "D. McCANDLESS/CO. I./99TH REG./P.V./PHILA. PA." On the reverse is a raised leaf design with "WAR OF 1861." at the top, under which have been stamped "Bull Run/Chantilly/ Fredericksburg/ Chancellorsville." The owner, Private David McCandless, was in this unit from January, 1862 through July, 1865. A native Irishman, McCandless served in the Ambulance Corps in the summer of 1862 and was later detailed as a hospital attendant "because of his steady habits and general reliability." He reenlisted as a Veteran Volunteer and continued with his hospital duties until mustered out with the regiment. A popular style at the time, this badge is hard to find today with its special swivel connecting chain still attached to the top shield. Other examples are known with Hooker, McClellan and Grant. Complete with the pin. Scarce and desirable.