William Ledyard
William Ledyard | |
|---|---|
Depiction of Ledyard on a memorial plaque at Fort Griswold | |
| Born | December 6, 1738 Groton, Connecticut |
| Died | September 6, 1781 (aged 42) Groton, Connecticut |
| Allegiance | United States |
| Branch | Connecticut Militia |
| Rank | Lieutenant-Colonel |
| Commands | Fort Griswold |
| Battles / wars | |
| Spouse(s) | Deborah Ledyard |
| Relations | John Ledyard (father) |
Lieutenant-Colonel William Ledyard (December 6, 1738 – September 6, 1781) was an American military officer who served in the Connecticut Militia in the Revolutionary War. During the conflict, he commanded Fort Griswold in Groton, Connecticut, which was attacked by British forces led by Benedict Arnold. In the battle, the fort was captured by the British. Ledyard allegedly surrendered his sword to Loyalist officer Major Stephen Bromfield, who immediately killed him with it.