This Day in American Military History

17 July 1862: Military pensions were established for wounded service members when Congress passed a law saying that “every officer, seaman, or marine, disabled in the line of duty, shall be intitled [sic] to receive for life, or during his disability, a pension from the United States.” Gradations were set according to the nature and degree of disability and monthly pay.

Quote of the Day: “At noon today, after a salute of 21 guns, & amidst the hurrahs of our troops, ‘Old Glory’ was raised over Santiago de Cuba, & the Spaniards stacked their arms.” Private Roger Fitch, Rough Rider, in his journal, July 17, 1898

Brandus, Paul. This Day in U.S. Military History (p. 175-176). Bernan Press. Kindle Edition.