Child received the United States' highest award for bravery during combat, the Medal of Honor, for his action during the Battle of Antietam in Maryland on 17 September 1862.

He was commissioned as a Second Lieutenant in August 1863, and was discharged by special order from General George Meade after serving a total of 43 months.

He died on May 16, 1902, and his remains are interred at Swan Point Cemetery in Providence, Rhode Island.

[4] Rank and organization: Corporal, Battery A, 1st Rhode Island Light Artillery.

Citation: Was wounded and taken to the rear insensible, but when partially recovered insisted on returning to the battery and resumed command of his piece, so remaining until the close of the battle.