Thomas, Melchia

Melchia Thomas served in the 8th United States Colored Troops during the Civil War. In October 1863 Thomas joined Company E as a Sergeant. While at the Battle of Olustee on February 20, 1864 in Florida, Thomas was wounded and sent to a hospital in Jacksonville. Thomas returned to his company after April 1864, but on August 17, 1864 Thomas drowned in the James River in Virginia. (By Don Sailer)