Harkins Family Genealogy & History

Paul Donal Harkins (1904–1984) was a distinguished U.S. Army general renowned for his strategic leadership during pivotal military operations. He served prominently in World War II, notably as deputy chief of staff under George S. Patton Jr., contributing significantly to the Allied invasions of North Africa and Sicily. Harkins earned the moniker "Ramrod" for his relentless drive to maintain momentum in combat, particularly during the Battle of the Bulge. He later became the first commander of the Military Assistance Command, Vietnam (MACV), from 1962 to 1964, marking a significant chapter in his illustrious military career.

Paul Harkins was born on May 15, 1904, in Boston, Massachusetts, as the second of five children to Edward Francis Harkins, a newspaper editor, and May E. Kelly. His early interest in a military career led him to enlist in the Massachusetts National Guard, where he developed skills in horseback riding and polo before attending the United States Military Academy at West Point.

Jansen Harkins, born on May 23, 1997, is an American-Canadian professional ice hockey center currently playing for the Anaheim Ducks in the NHL. He was initially drafted by the Winnipeg Jets in the second round of the 2015 NHL Entry Draft. Throughout his career, Harkins has showcased his skills with various teams, including the Pittsburgh Penguins and the Prince George Cougars of the WHL. Notably, he became the all-time assists and points leader for the Cougars, was named Manitoba's most valuable player for the 2019–20 AHL season, and made his NHL debut in December 2019, quickly establishing himself as a valuable player.

Gary Harkins, born on 2 January 1985 in Greenock, Scotland, is a prominent Scottish professional footballer and coach, best known for his role as a midfielder. Harkins' career highlights include playing in the Scottish Premiership for notable clubs such as Kilmarnock, Dundee, and St. Mirren. He also had significant tenures in the English Football League with teams like Huddersfield Town, Bury, Blackpool, Grimsby Town, and Oldham Athletic. In Scotland, he played for clubs including Partick Thistle and Ayr United. Beyond his playing career, Harkins took on coaching roles, serving as a first-team coach and assistant manager at Forfar Athletic.

George Washington Harkins (1810–1861) was a prominent Choctaw leader and attorney known for his significant role during the Indian Removal era. Elected as principal chief after the national council deposed his uncle, Greenwood LeFlore, Harkins also served as a judge of the Red River District in Indian Territory from 1834. His leadership extended to being chief of the Apukshunnubbee District from 1850 to 1857. Harkins' "Farewell Letter to the American People," which criticized the forced removal of the Choctaw, remains a key document in Native American history, underscoring his influence and commitment to his people.

Harkins was born into a high-status Choctaw clan through his mother, Louisa "Lusony" LeFlore, and his father, Willis J Harkins. His maternal uncle, Greenwood LeFlore, played a significant role in his upbringing, reflecting the Choctaw's matrilineal system where the mother's clan determined one's status. Harkins married Salina Gardner and Lily Folsom, daughter of Chief David Folsom, and had several children who continued the family's legacy.