William Ledyard

William Ledyard
Depiction of Ledyard on a memorial plaque at Fort Griswold
Born(1738-12-06)December 6, 1738
Groton, Connecticut
DiedSeptember 6, 1781 (aged 42)
Groton, Connecticut
Allegiance United States
Service / branchConnecticut Militia
RankLieutenant-Colonel
CommandsFort Griswold
Battles / wars
Spouse(s)Deborah Ledyard
RelationsJohn 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.