Veteran Volunteer 1st Sergeant Joseph A. Walker enlisted in Company "I", 4th Wisconsin Volunteer Infantry on July 2, 1861 at Sparta, Wisconsin. He was recruited by Captain John W. Lynn and enlisted for 3 years. He was mustered July 2, 1861 at Racine, Wisconsin. He was 21 years old, (marital status not given), had grey eyes, light hair, a light complexion, was 5' 9" and listed his occupation as "soldier".

Walker was from Ontario, Vernon County (credited to Whitestown, Vernon County).

Walker was credited, in writing, as having participated in the battles of Grand Gulf Mississippi in June of 1862, Baton Rouge, Louisiana on August 5, 1862, Bonnet Carre Church on October 8, 1862, Camp Bisland Louisiana on April 12 + 13, 1863, Port Hudson Louisiana May 27, 1863, Clinton Louisiana June 3, 1863.

He was promoted to Corporal on May 15, 1863. He was promoted to Sergeant August 28, 1863. Walker reenlisted as a Veteran Volunteer on January 1, 1864 at Baton Rouge, Louisiana (by Lt. G.C. Pierce). He was mustered on February 14, 1864.On April 4, 1864 he went home on a Veteran Furlough. In July of 1864 he was made Regimental Color Bearer, in August he was part of the Color Escort, September he was Color Bearer again, October a member of the Color Guard. January, 1865 he was again Color Bearer and from February to June he was part of the Color Guard. On July 8, 1865 he was promoted to 1st Sergeant. Walker was transferred to Company "A" on August 23, 1865.

1st Sergeant Walker was the Acting Post Sergeant Major November and December, 1865.

On December 10, 1865 he received a 60 day furlough. He failed to report back for duty after his furlough. On February 28, 1866 he was dropped as a deserter . In April he was taken up again by order of Colonel Craigue. He was mustered out on April 27, 1866 at Madison, Wisconsin pens (sp?) Tel. (telegraph?) from AGO (Adjutant General's Office) 2/14/65.

Sgt stripes can be seen on one sleeve.


Source: Mike Thorson