He served as a Union Army officer during the American Civil War. He held the rank of Colonel when he was wounded on the first day of the Battle of Gettysburg, July 1, 1863. The Battle of Gettysburg was a critical and deadly engagement that resulted in significant casualties on both sides. Fairchild’s left arm was severely injured during the battle, and as a result, it had to be amputated. Despite this life-altering injury, he displayed remarkable resilience and continued to serve his country in various capacities after the war. After recovering from his wounds, Fairchild was promoted to Brigadier General and later Major General. He went on to have a successful political career, serving as the Secretary of State of Wisconsin, the Governor of Wisconsin for three terms, and the U.S. consul in Liverpool and Paris.
