Francis V. Randall (February 13, 1824 – March 1, 1885) was an attorney, farmer, college administrator, and military officer from Vermont.

At the start of the American Civil War, he joined the Union Army and was commissioned captain and commander of Company F, 2nd Vermont Volunteer Infantry Regiment.

Discharged in July 1865, he returned to Vermont, joined the Republican Party, and resumed his law practice and farming and business interests.

[4] After deciding on a legal career, he left Norwich without graduating and studied law with Northfield attorney Herman Carpenter.

[3] Randall practiced initially with Albert V. H. Carpenter, and later with Charles Herbert Joyce, who was married to his sister Rouene.

[12] In early 1861, he joined a Montpelier militia company, the Capital Guards, which he commanded with the rank of captain.

[13] At the start of the American Civil War in 1861, Randall enlisted in the Union Army and received his commission as captain and commander of Company F, 2nd Vermont Volunteer Infantry Regiment.

[15] Randall then led his troops, the prisoners, and the recaptured battery back to the Union lines at Seminary Ridge.

[17] He then took the initiative to break through to the front of his lines, and placed his back to the enemy so he could shout while waving his sword and hat at his own troops until his order to stop firing was understood.

[19] When draft riots broke out in New York City in mid-July, Randall led the brigade as it took part in the military's response.

[18] As part of the IX Corps, Randall led the 17th Vermont during its participation in the Battle of the Wilderness and Siege of Petersburg.

[18] Randall was also involved in several business ventures, including serving as an original incorporator of the Montpelier and Wells River Railroad.

[30] In mid-March, organizers created a new Grand Army of the Republic post in Danville, which was named in Randall's honor.

July 2; In the charge Colonel Randall fell with his wounded horse but soon overtook and led the line on foot.

July 3; When the Confederates began to yield to the flank attack and his order to cease firing was not heard he rushed in front of his line and by word and gesture made himself understood and thus saved the lives of many foes.