Revolutionary War New York Militia General. He was appointed Brigadier General militia by the New York State Provincial Congress during the Revolutionary War, and led troops against a combined forces of Native Americans, loyalists and British soldiers at the August 6, 1777 Battle of Oriskany in Oneida County, New York. He was mortally wounded in the fight, which saw horrific casualties and both sides claiming victory. Cause of death: Died due to infection and conditions relating to loss of leg during the battle