Early in the Civil War, a medal for
individual valor was proposed to General-in-Chief of the Army Winfield
Scott. But Scott felt medals smacked of European affectation and killed
the idea.
The medal found support in the Navy, however, where it was felt recognition
of courage in strife was needed. Public Resolution 82, containing a provision
for a Navy medal of valor, was signed into law by President Abraham Lincoln
on December 21, 1861. The medal was "to be bestowed upon such petty
officers, seamen, landsmen, and Marines as shall most distinguish themselves
by their gallantry and other seamanlike qualities during the present war."
Shortly after this, a resolution similar in wording was introduced on behalf
of the Army. Signed into law July 12, 1862, the measure provided for awarding
a medal of honor "to such noncommissioned officers and privates as
shall most distinguish themselves by their gallantry in action, and other
soldierlike qualities, during the present insurrection."
Although it was created for the Civil War, Congress made the Medal of Honor
a permanent decoration in 1863. 1,520 Medals were awarded during the Civil
War, 1,195 to the Army, 308 to the Navy ,17 to the Marines. 25 Medals were
awarded posthumously.
BARRICK, JESSE T. May 26 - June
2, 1863
Near Duck River
Rank and organization: Corporal, Company
H, 3d Minnesota Infantry. Entered service at: Ft. Snelling, Rice County,
Minn. Born: 18 January 1841, Columbiana County, Ohio. Date of issue: 3
March 1917.
Citation: While on a scout captured single-handed 2 desperate
Confederate guerrilla officers who were together and well armed at the
time.
HILLIKER, BENJAMIN F. June
4, 1863
Mechanicsburg, Miss
Rank and organization: Musician, Company A, 8th Wisconsin Infantry.
Entered service at. Waupaca Township, Wis. Born: 23 May 1843, Golden, Erie
County, N.Y. Date of issue: 17 December 1897.
Citation: When men were needed to oppose a superior Confederate
force he laid down his drum for a rifle and proceeded to the front of the
skirmish line which was about 120 feet from the enemy. While on this volunteer
mission and firing at the enemy he was hit in the head with a minie ball
which passed through him. An order was given to "lay him in the shade;
he won't last long." He recovered from this wound being left with
an ugly scar.
DI CESNOLA, LOUIS P. June
17, 1863
Aldie,Va
Rank and organization: Colonel, 4th New
York Cavalry. Entered service at: New York, N.Y. Born: 29 June 1832, Rivarola,
Piedmont, Italy. Date of issue: Unknown.
Citation: Was present, in arrest, when, seeing his regiment
fall back, he rallied his men, accompanied them, without arms, in a second
charge, and in recognition of his gallantry was released from arrest. He
continued in the action at the head of his regiment until he was desperately
wounded and taken prisoner.
DURHAM, JAMES R. June 14, 1863
Winchester, Va.
Rank and organization: Second Lieutenant,
Company E, 12th West Virginia Infantry. Entered service at: Clarksburg,
W. Va. Born: 7 February 1833, Richmond, W. Va. Date of issue: 6 March 1890.
Citation: Led his command over the stone wall, where he was
wounded.
FOX, NICHOLAS June 14, 1863
Port Hudson, La.
Rank and organization: Private, Company H, 28th Connecticut Infantry.
Entered service at: Greenwich, Conn. Birth: ------. Date of issue: 1 April
1898.
Citation: Made 2 trips across an open space, in the face
of the enemy's concentrated fire, and secured water for the sick and wounded.
HALLOCK, NATHAN M. June 15, 1863
Bristoe Station, Va.
Rank and organization: Private, Company
K, 124th New York Infantry. Entered service at: Middletown, N.Y. Birth:
Orange County, N.Y. Date of issue: 10 September 1897.
Citation: At imminent peril saved from death or capture a
disabled officer of his company by carrying him under a hot musketry fire,
to a place of safety.
LOVERING, GEORGE M. June 14, 1863
Port Hudson, La
Rank and organization: First Sergeant,
Company I, 4th Massachusetts Infantry. Entered service at: East Randolph,
Mass. Born: 10 January 1832, Springfield, N.H. Date of issue: 19 November
1891.
Citation: During a momentary confusion in the ranks caused
by other troops rushing upon the regiment, this soldier, with coolness
and determination, rendered efficient aid in preventing a panic among the
troops.
NUGENT, CHRISTOPHER June 15, 1863
Crystal River, Fla
Rank and organization: Orderly Sergeant,
U.S. Marine Corps. Born: 1840, County of Caven, Ireland. Accredited to:
Massachusetts. G.O. No.: 32, 16 April 1864.
Citation: Serving on board the U.S.S. Fort Henry, Crystal
River, Fla., 15 June 1863. Reconnoitering on the Crystal River on this
date and in charge of a boat from the Fort Henry, Orderly Sgt. Nugent ordered
an assault upon a rebel breastwork fortification. In this assault, the
orderly sergeant and his comrades drove a guard of 11 rebels into the swamp,
capturing their arms and destroying their camp equipage while gallantly
withholding fire to prevent harm to a woman among the fugitives. On 30
July 1863, he further proved his courage by capturing a boat off Depot
Key, Fla., containing 2 men and a woman with their baggage.
PATTERSON, JOHN T. June 14, 1863
Winchester, Va.
Rank and organization: Principal Musician,
122d Ohio Infantry. Entered service at: ------. Birth: Morgan County, Ohio.
Date of issue: 13 May 1899
Citation: With one companion, voluntarily went in front of
the Union line, under a heavy fire from the enemy, and carried back a helpless
wounded comrade, thus saving him from death or capture.
ROBINSON, ELBRIDGE June 14, 1863
Winchester, Va.
Rank and organization: Private, Company
C, 122d Ohio Infantry. Entered service at: ------. Birth: Morgan County,
Ohio. Date of issue: 5 April 1898.
Citation: With 1 companion, voluntarily went in front of
the Union line, under a heavy fire from the enemy, and carried back a helpless,
wounded comrade, thus saving him from death or capture.
DAVIS, CHARLES C. June 27, 1863
Shelbyville, Tenn.
Rank and organization: - Major, 7th Pennsylvania
Cav. Inducted: Harrisburg, Pa. DOB 15 Aug 1830, Harrisburg, Pa. Issued:
14 Jun 1894.
Citation: Led one of the most desperate and successful charges
of the war.
McKEEN, NINEVEH S. June 25, 1863
Liberty Gap, Tenn
Rank and organization: 1Lt, Co H, 21st
Illinois Inf. Inducted: Marshall, Clark County, Ill. Born: Marshall, Clark
County, Ill. Issued: 23 Jun 1890.
Citation: Conspicuous in the charge at Stone River, Tenn,
where he was three times wounded. At Liberty Gap, Tenn, captured colors
of 8th Arkansas Inf (CSA).
TAYLOR, HENRY H. June 25, 1863
Vicksburg, Miss
Rank and organization: Sgt, Co C, 45th Illinois Inf. Inducted: Galena,
Jo Daviess County, Ill. Born: Jo Daviess County, Ill. Issued: 1 Sep 1893.
Citation: Was the first to plant the Union colors upon the
enemy's works.
COATES, JEFFERSON July 01, 1863
Gettysburg, Pa
Rank and organization: Sgt, Co H, 7th
Wisconsin Inf. Inducted: Boscobel, Wis. Born: Grant County, Wis. Issued:
29 Jun 1866.
Citation: Unsurpassed courage in battle, where he had both
eyes shot out.
GILLIGAN, EDWARD L. July 01, 1863
Gettysburg, Pa
Rank and organization: 1st Sgt, Co E, 88th Pennsylvania Inf. Inducted:
Philadelphia, Pa. Born: Philadelphia, Pa. Issued: 30 Apr 1892.
Citation: Assisted in the capture of a Confederate flag by
knocking down the color sergeant.
HUIDEKOPER, HENRY S. July 01,
1863
Gettysburg, Pa
Rank and organization: LtCol, 150th Pennsylvania Inf. Inducted: Philadelphia,
Pa. DOB 17 Jul 1839, Meadville, Pa. Issued: 27 May 1905.
Citation: While engaged in repelling an attack of the enemy,
received a severe wound of the right arm, but instead of retiring remained
at the front in command of the regiment
IRSCH, FRANCIS July 01, 1863
Gettysburg, Pa
Rank and organization: Captain, Co D,
45th New York Inf. Inducted: New York, N.Y. Issued: 27 May 1892.
Citation: Gallantry in flanking the enemy and capturing a
number of prisoners and in holding a part of the town against heavy odds
while the Army was rallying on Cemetery Hill.
REISINGER, J. MONROE July 01, 1863
Gettysburg, Pa
Rank and organization: Cpl, Co H, 150th
Pennsylvania Inf. Inducted: Meadville, Pa. Born: Beaver County, Pa. Issued:
Unknown.
Citation: Specially brave and meritorious conduct in the
face of the enemy. Awarded under Act of Congress, Jan 25, 1907.
RUTTER, JAMES M. July 01,
1863
Gettysburg, Pa
Rank and organization: Sgt, Co C, 143d Pennsylvania Inf. Wilkes-Barre,
Pa. Issued: 30 Oct 1896.
Citation: At great risk of his life went to the assistance
of a wounded comrade, and while under fire removed him to a place of safety.
SELLERS, ALFRED J. July 01, 1863
Gettysburg, Pa
Rank and organization: Major, 90th Pennsylvania
Inf. Inducted: Pennsylvania. DOB 2 March 1836, Plumsteadville, Bucks County,
Pa. Issued: 21 Jul 1894.
Citation: Voluntarily led the regiment under a withering
fire to a position from which the enemy was repulsed.
WALLER, FRANCIS A. July 01, 1863
Gettysburg, Pa
Rank and organization: Cpl, Co I, 6th
Wisconsin Inf. Inducted: DeSoto, Vernon County, Wis. Born: Gurney, Ohio.
Issued: 1 Dec 1864.
Citation: Capture of flag of 2d Mississippi Inf (CSA).
ALLEN, NATHANIEL M. July 02, 1863
Gettysburg, Pa
Rank and organization: Cpl, Co B, 1st
Massachusetts Inf. Inducted: Boston, Mass. Born: Boston, Mass. Issued:
29 March 1899.
Citation: When his regiment was falling back, this soldier,
bearing the national color, returned in the face of the enemy's fire, pulled
the regimental flag from under the body of its bearer, who had fallen,
saved the flag from capture, and brought both colors off the field
CAREY, HUGH July 02, 1863
Gettysburg, Pa
Rank and organization: Sgt, Co E, 82d
New York Inf. Born: Ireland. Issued: 6 Feb 1888.
Citation: Captured the flag of the 7th Virginia Inf (CSA),
being twice wounded in the effort.
CARLISLE, CASPER R. July 02, 1863
Gettysburg, Pa
Rank and organization: Pvt, Co F, Independent
Pennsylvania Light Artillery. Inducted: Allegheny County, Pa. Born: Allegheny
County, Pa. Issued: 21 Dec 1892.
Citation: Saved a gun of his battery under heavy musketry
fire, most of the horses being killed and the drivers wounded.
CHAMBERLAIN, JOSHUA L. July 02, 1863
Gettysburg, Pa
Rank and organization: Col, 20th Maine
Inf. Inducted: Brunswick, ME. DOB 8 Sep 1828, Brewer Maine. Issued: 11
Aug 1893.
Citation: Daring heroism and great tenacity in holding his
position on the Little Round Top against repeated assaults, and carrying
the advance position on the Great Round Top.
CLARK, HARRISON July 02, 1863
Gettysburg, Pa
Rank and organization: Cpl, Co E, 125th
New York Inf. Inducted: Chatham, N.Y. Born: Chatham, N.Y. Issued: 11 Jun
1895.
Citation: Seized the colors and advanced with them after
the color bearer had been shot.
FASSETT, JOHN B. July 02, 1863
Gettysburg, Pa
Rank and organization: Captain, Co F, 23d Pennsylvania Inf. Inducted:
Philadelphia, Pa. Born: Philadelphia, Pa. Issued: 29 Dec 1894.
Citation: While acting as an aide, voluntarily led a regiment
to the relief of a battery and recaptured its guns from the enemy.
FURMAN, CHESTER S. July 02, 1863
Gettysburg, Pa
Rank and organization: Cpl, Co A, 6th
Pennsylvania Reserves. Born: Columbia, Pa. Issued: 3 Aug 1897.
Citation: Was 1 of 6 volunteers who charged upon a log house
near Devil's Den, where a squad of the enemy's sharpshooters were sheltered,
and compelled their surrender.
GAGE, RICHARD J. July 02, 1863
Elk River, Tenn
Rank and organization: Pvt, Co D, 104th
Illinois Inf. Entered service at. Ottawa, Ill. Born: Grafton County,
N.H. Issued: 30 Oct 1897.
Citation: Voluntarily joined a small party that, under a
heavy fire, captured a stockade and saved the bridge.
HART, JOHN W. July 02, 1863
Gettysburg, Pa
Rank and organization: Sgt, Co D, 6th
Pennsylvania Reserves. Inducted: Cumberland, Md. Born: Germany. Issued:
3 Aug 1897.
Citation: Was one of six volunteers who charged upon a log
house near the Devil's Den, where a squad of the enemy's sharpshooters
were sheltered, and compelled their surrender.
HOLLAND, LEMUEL F. July 02, 1863
Elk River, Tenn
Rank and organization: Cpl, Co D, 104th
Illinois Inf. Inducted: La Salle County, Ill. Birth. Burlington, Ohio.
Issued: 30 Oct 1897.
Citation: Voluntarily joined a small party that, under a
heavy fire, captured a stockade and saved the bridge.
HORAN, THOMAS July 02, 1863
Gettysburg, Pa
Rank and organization: Sgt, Co E, 72d
New York Inf. Inducted: Dunkirk, N.Y. Issued: 5 Apr 1898.
Citation: In a charge of his regiment this soldier captured
the regimental flag of the 8th Florlda Inf (CSA).
HOUGHTON, GEORGE L. July 02, 1863
Elk River, Tenn
Rank and organization: Pvt, Co D, 104th
Illinois Inf. Inducted: Brookfield, Cook County, Ill. Born: Canada. Issued:
27 March 1900.
Citation: Voluntarily joined a small party that, under a
heavy fire, captured a stockade and saved the bridge.
JOHNSON, WALLACE W. July 02, 1863
Gettysburg, Pa
Rank and organization: Sgt, Co G, 6th
Pennsylvania Reserves. Inducted: Waverly, N.Y. Born: Newfield, N.Y. Issued:
8 Aug 1900.
Citation: With five other volunteers gallantly charged on
a number of the enemy's sharpshooters concealed in a log house, captured
them, and brought them into the Union lines.
KNOX, EDWARD M. July 02, 1863
Gettysburg, Pa
Rank and organization: 2Lt, 15th New York
Battery. Inducted: New York, N.Y. Born: New York, N.Y. Issued: 18 Oct 1892.
Citation: Held his ground with the battery after the other
batteries had fallen back until compelled to draw his piece off by hand;
he was severely wounded.
LONERGAN, JOHN July 02, 1863
Gettysburg, Pa
Rank and organization: Captain, Co A,
13th Vermont Inf. Inducted: Burlington, Vt. Born: Ireland. Issued: 28 Oct
1893.
Citation: Gallantry in the recapture of 4 guns and the capture
of 2 additional guns from the enemy; also the capture of a number of prisoners.
MARSH, GEORGE July 02, 1863
Elk River, Tenn
Rank and organization: Sgt, Co D, 104th
Illinois Inf. Inducted: Brookfield, La Salle County, Ill. Born: Brookfield,
La Salle County, Ill. Issued: 17 Sep 1897.
Citation: Voluntarily led a small party and, under a heavy
fire, captured a stockade and saved the bridge.
MEARS, GEORGE W. July 02, 1863
Gettysburg, Pa
Rank and organization: Sgt, Co A, 6th
Pennsylvania Reserves. Inducted: Bloomsburgh, Pa. Born: Bloomsburgh, Pa.
Issued: 16 Feb 1897.
Citation: With five volunteers he gallantly charged on a
number of the enemy's sharpshooters concealed in a log house, captured
them, and brought them into the Union lines.
PIPES, JAMES July 02, 1863
Gettysburg, Pa
Rank and organization: Captain, Co A,
140th Pennsylvania Inf. Born: Green County, Pa. Issued: 5 Apr 1898.
Citation: While a sergeant and retiring with his company before
the rapid advance of the enemy at Gettysburg, he and a companion stopped
and carried to a place of safety a wounded and helpless comrade; in this
act both he and his companion were severely wounded. A year later, at Reams
Station, Va, while commanding a skirmish line, voluntarily assisted in
checking a flank movement of the enemy, and while so doing was severely
wounded, suffering the loss of an arm.
POSTLES, JAMES PARKE July 02, 1863
Gettysburg, Pa
Rank and organization: Captain, Co
A, 1st Delaware Inf. Inducted: Wilmington, Del. DOB 28 Sep 1840, Camden,
Del. Issued: 22 Jul 1892.
Citation: Voluntarily delivered an order in the face of heavy
fire of the enemy.
PURMAN, JAMES J. July 02, 1863
Gettysburg, Pa
Rank and organization: Lt, Co A, 140th
Pennsylvania Inf. Inducted: Greene County, Pa. Dare of issue: 30 Oct 1896.
Citation: Voluntarily assisted a wounded comrade to a place
of apparent safety while the enemy were in close proximity; he received
the fire of the enemy and a wound which resulted in the amputation of his
left leg.
REED, CHARLES W. July 02, 1863
Gettysburg, Pa
Rank and organization: Bugler, 9th Independent
Battery, Massachusetts Light Artillery. Born: Charlestown, Mass. Issued:
16 Aug 1895.
Citation: Rescued his wounded captain from between the lines.
ROUSH, J. LEVI July 02, 1863
Gettysburg, Pa
Rank and organization: Cpl, Co D, 6th
Pennsylvania Reserves. Born: Bedford County, Pa. Issued: 3 Aug 1897.
Citation: Was 1 of 6 volunteers who charged upon a log house
near the Devil's Den, where a squad of the enemy's sharpshooters were sheltered,
and compelled their surrender
SHAPLAND, JOHN July 02, 1863
Elk River, Tenn
Rank and organization: Pvt, Co D, 104th
Illinois Inf. Inducted: Ottawa, Ill. Born: England. Issued: 30 Oct 1897.
Citation: Voluntarily joined a small party that, under a
heavy fire, captured a stockade and saved the bridge.
SICKLES, DANIEL E. July 02, 1863
Gettysburg, Pa
Rank and organization: Major General,
US Volunteers. Inducted: New York, N.Y. Born: New York, N.Y. Issued: 30
Oct 1897.
Citation: Displayed most conspicuous gallantry on the field
vigorously contesting the advance of the enemy and continuing to encourage
his troops after being himself severely wounded.
SLAGLE, OSCAR July 02, 1863
Elk River, Tenn
Rank and organization: Pvt, Co D, 104th
Illinois Inf. Inducted: Manlius, Ill. Born: Fulton County, Ohio. Issued:
30 Oct 1897.
Citation: Voluntarily joined a small party that, under a
heavy fire, captured a stockade and saved the bridge.
SMALLEY, REUBEN S. July 02, 1863
Elk River, Tenn
Rank and organization: Pvt, Co D, 104th
Illinois Inf. Inducted: Brookfield, La Salle County, Ill. Born: Washington
County, Pa. Issued: 30 Oct 1897.
Citation: Voluntarily joined a small party that, under a
heavy fire, captured a stockade and saved the bridge.
SMITH, THADDEUS S July 02, 1863
Gettysburg, Pa
Rank and organization: Cpl, Co E, 6th
Pennsylvania Reserve Inf. Born: Franklin County, Pa. Issued: 5 May 1900.
Citation: Was 1 of 6 volunteers who charged upon a log house
near the Devil's Den, where a squad of the enemy's sharpshooters were sheltered,
and compelled their surrender.
STACEY, CHARLES July 02, 1863
Gettysburg, Pa
Rank and organization: Pvt, Co D, 55th
Ohio Inf. Born: England. Issued: 23 Jun 1896.
Citation: Voluntarily took an advanced position on the skirmish
line for the purpose of ascertaining the location of Confederate sharpshooters,
and under heavy fire held the position thus taken until the company of
which he was a member went back to the main line.
TOZIER, ANDREW J. July 02, 1863
Gettysburg, Pa
Rank and organization: Sgt, Co I, 20th
Maine Inf. Inducted: Plymouth, ME. Born: Monmouth, ME. Issued: 13 Aug 1898.
Citation: At the crisis of the engagement this soldier, a
color bearer, stood alone in an advanced position, the regiment having
been borne back, and defended his colors with musket and ammunition picked
up at his feet.
BACON, ELIJAH W July 03, 1863
Gettysburg, Pa
Rank and organization: Pvt, Co F, 14th
Connecticut Inf. Inducted: Berlin, Conn. Born: Burlington, Conn. Issued:
1 Dec 1864. Citation: Capture of flag of 16th North Carolina
regiment (CSA)
BENEDICT, GEORGE G. July 03, 1863
Gettysburg, Pa
Rank and organization: 2Lt, Co C, 12th
Vermont Inf. Inducted: Burlington, Vt. Born: Burlington, Vt. Issued: 27
Jun 1892.
Citation: Passed through a murderous fire of grape and canister
in delivering orders and re-formed the crowded lines
BROWN, MORRIS, JR. July 03, 1863
Gettysburg, Pa
Rank and organization: Captain, Co A, 126th New York Inf. Inducted:
Penn Yan, N.Y. DOB Aug 1842, Hammondsport, N.Y. Issued: 6 March 1869.
Citation: Capture of flag.
CLOPP, JOHN E. July 03, 1863
Gettysburg, Pa
Rank and organization: Pvt, Co F, 71st
Pennsylvania Inf. Inducted: Philadelphia, Pa. Born: Philadelphia, Pa. Issued:
2 Feb 1865.
Citation: Capture of flag of 9th Virginia Inf (CSA), wresting
it from the color bearer.
*FALLS, BENJAMIN F. July 03, 1863
Gettysburg, Pa
Rank and organization: Color Sgt, Co A, 19th Massachusetts Inf. Inducted:
Lynn, Mass. Birth. Portsmouth, N.H. Date of issue. Dec 1864.
Citation: Capture of flag.
DE CASTRO, JOSEPH H. July 03,
1863
Gettysburg, Pa
Rank and organization: Cpl, Co I, 19th Massachusetts Inf. Action: At
Gettysburg PA, 3 Jul 1863. Born: Boston, Mass. Issued: 1 Dec 1864.
Citation: Capture of flag of 19th Virginia regiment (CSA).
DORE, GEORGE H. July 03, 1863
Gettysburg, Pa
Rank and organization: Sgt, Co D, 126th
New York Inf. Born: England. Issued: 1 Dec 1864.
Citation: The colors being struck down by a shell as the
enemy were charging, this soldier rushed out and seized it, exposing himself
to the fire of both sides.
ENDERLIN, RICHARD July 1-3, 1863
Gettysburg, Pa
Rank and organization: Musician, Co B,
73d Ohio Inf. Inducted: Chillicothe, Ohio. Born: Germany. Issued: 11 Sep
1897.
Citation: Voluntarily took a rifle and served as a soldier
in the ranks during the first and second days of the battle. Voluntarily
and at his own imminent peril went into the enemy's lines at night and,
under a sharp fire, rescued a wounded comrade.
FLYNN, CHRISTOPHER July 03, 1863
Gettysburg, Pa
Rank and organization: Cpl, Co K, 14th
Connecticut Inf. Inducted: Sprague, Conn. Born: Ireland. Issued: 1 Dec
1864.
Citation: Capture of flag of 52d North Carolina Inf (CSA).
FUGER, FREDERICK July 03, 1863
Gettysburg, Pa
Rank and organization: Sgt, Battery A,
4th US Artillery. Born: Germany. Issued: 24 Aug 1897.
Citation: All the officers of his battery having been killed
or wounded and five of its guns disabled in Pickett's assault, he succeeded
to the command and fought the remaining gun with most distinguished gallantry
until the battery was ordered withdrawn.
HINCKS, WILLIAM B. July 03, 1863
Gettysburg, Pa
Rank and organization: SgtMaj, 14th Connecticut Inf. Inducted: Bridgeport,
Conn. Born: Bucksport, Me. Issued: 1 Dec 1864.
Citation: During the highwater mark of Pickett's charge on
3 Jul 1863 the colors of the 14th Tenn. Inf. C.S.A. were planted 50 yards
in front of the center of Sgt. Maj. Hincks' regiment. There were no Confederates
standing near it but several were lying down around it. Upon a call for
volunteers by Maj. Ellis, commanding, to capture this flag, this soldier
and 2 others leaped the wall. One companion was instantly shot. Sgt. Maj.
Hincks outran his remaining companion running straight and swift for the
colors amid a storm of shot. Swinging his saber over the prostrate Confederates
and uttering a terrific yell, he seized the flag and hastily returned to
his lines. The 14th Tenn. carried 12 battle honors on its flag. The devotion
to duty shown by Sgt. Maj. Hlncks gave encouragement to many of his comrades
at a crucial moment of the battle.
JELLISON, BENJAMIN H. July 03, 1863
Gettysburg, Pa
Rank and organization: Sgt, Co C, 19th
Massachusetts Inf. Inducted: Newburyport, Mass. Born: Newburyport, Mass.
Issued: 1 Dec 1864.
Citation: Capture of flag of 57th Virginia Inf (CSA). He
also assisted in taking prisoners.
MAYBERRY, JOHN B. July 03,
1863
Gettysburg, Pa
Rank and organization: Pvt, Co F, 1st Delaware Inf. Inducted: Kent
County, Del. Born: Smyrna, Del. Issued: 1 Dec 1864.
Citation: Capture of flag.
McCARREN, BERNARD July 03, 1863
Gettysburg, Pa
Rank and organization: Pvt, Co C, 1st
Delaware Inf. Inducted: Wilmington, Del. Born: Ireland. Issued: 1 Dec 1864.
Citation: Capture of flag.
MILLER, JOHN July 03, 1863
Gettysburg, Pa
Rank and organization: Cpl, Co G, 8th
Ohio Inf. Inducted: Freemont, Sandusky County, Ohio. Born: Germany. Date
of issue. 1 Dec 1864.
Citation: Capture of 2 flags.
MILLER, WILLIAM E. July 03,
1863
Gettysburg, Pa
Rank and organization: Captain, Co H, 3d Pennsylvania Cav. DOB 5 Feb
1836, West Hill, Pa. Date of issue 21 Jul 1897.
Citation: Without orders, led a charge of his squadron upon
the flank of the enemy, checked his attack, and cut off and dispersed the
rear of his column.
MUNSELL, HARVEY M. July 1-3, 1863
Gettysburg, Pa
Rank and organization: Sgt, Co A, 99th
Pennsylvania Inf. Inducted: Vanango County, Pa. Born: Steuben County, N.Y.
Issued: 5 Feb 1866.
Citation: Gallant and courageous conduct as color bearer.
(This noncommissioned officer carried the colors of his regiment through
13 engagements.)
O'BRIEN, HENRY D. July 03, 1863
Gettysburg, Pa
Rank and organization: Cpl, Co E, 1st
Minnesota Inf. Inducted: St. Anthony Falls, Minn. Born: Maine. Issued:
9 Apr 1890.
Citation: Taking up the colors where they had fallen, he
rushed ahead of his regiment, close to the muzzles of the enemy's guns,
and engaged in the desperate struggle in which the enemy was defeated,
and though severely wounded, he held the colors until wounded a second
time.
RAYMOND, WILLIAM H. July 03, 1863
Gettysburg, Pa
Rank and organization: Cpl, Co A, 108th
New York Inf. Inducted: Penfield, N.Y. Born: Penfield, N.Y. Issued: 10
March 1896
Citation: Voluntarily and under a severe fire brought a box
of ammunition to his comrades on the skirmish line.
RICE, EDMUND July 03, 1863
Gettysburg, Pa
Rank and organization: Major, 19th Massachusetts
Inf. Inducted: Boston, Mass. Born: Brighton, Mass. Issued: 6 Oct 1891.
Citation: Conspicuous bravery on the third day of the battle
on the countercharge against Pickett's division where he fell severely
wounded within the enemy's lines.
RICHMOND, JAMES July 03, 1863
Gettysburg, Pa
Rank and organization: Pvt, Co F, 8th
Ohio Inf. Inducted: Toledo Ohio. Born: Maine. Issued: 1 Dec 1864.
Citation: Capture of flag.
ROBINSON, JOHN H. July 03, 1863
Gettysburg, Pa
Rank and organization: Pvt, Co I, 19th
Massachusetts Inf. Inducted: Roxbury, Mass. Born: Ireland. Issued: 1 Dec
1864.
Citation: Capture of flag of 57th Virginia Inf (CSA).
ROOD, OLIVER P. July 03,
1863
Gettysburg, Pa
Rank and organization: Pvt, Co B, 20th Indiana Inf. Inducted: Terre
Haute, Vigo County, Ind. Born: Frankfort County, Ky. Issued: 1 Dec 1864.
Citation: Capture of flag of 21st North Carolina Inf (CSA).
SHERMAN, MARSHALL July 03, 1863
Gettysburg, Pa
Rank and organization: Pvt, Co C, 1st
Minnesota Inf. Entered service at. St. Paul, Minn. Born: Burlington, Vt.
Issued: 1 Dec 1864.
Citation: Capture of flag of 28th Virginia Inf (CSA).
THOMPSON, JAMES B. July 03, 1863
Gettysburg, Pa
Rank and organization: Sgt, Co G, 1st
Pennsylvania Rifles. Inducted: Perrysville, Pa. Born: Juniata County, Pa.
Issued: 1 Dec 1864.
Citation: Capture of flag of 15th Georgia Inf (CSA).
VEAZEY, WHEELOCK G. July 03, 1863
Gettysburg, Pa
Rank and organization: Col, 16th Vermont Inf. Inducted: Springfield,
Vt. DOB 5 Dec 1835, Brentwood, N.H. Issued: 8 Sep 1891.
Citation: Rapidly assembled his regiment and charged the
enemy's flank; charged front under heavy fire, and charged and destroyed
a Confederate brigade, all this with new troops in their first battle.
WALL, JERRY July 03, 1863
Gettysburg, Pa
Rank and organization: Pvt, Co B, 126th
New York Inf. Inducted: Milo, N.Y. Born: Geneva, N.Y. Issued: 1 Dec 1864.
Citation: Capture of flag.
WEBB, ALEXANDER S. July 03,
1863
Gettysburg, Pa
Rank and organization: BGenl, US Volunteers. Inducted: New York, N.Y.
DOB 15 Feb 1835, New York, N.Y. Issued: 28 Sep 1891.
Citation: Distinguished personal gallantry in leading his
men forward at a critical period in the contest.
WELLS, WILLIAM July 03, 1863
Gettysburg, Pa
Rank and organization: Major, 1st Vermont
Cav. Inducted: Waterbury, Vt. DOB 14 Dec 1837, Waterbury, Vt. Issued: 8
Sep 1891.
Citation: Led the second battalion of his regiment in a daring
charge.
WILEY, JAMES July 03, 1863
Gettysburg, Pa
Rank and organization: Sgt, Co B, 59th
New York Inf. Born: Ohio. Issued: 1 Dec 1864.
Citation: Capture of flag of a Georgia regiment.
CAPEHART, CHARLES E. July 04, 1863
Monterey Mountain, Pa.
Rank and organization: Major, 1st West
Virginia Cav. Inducted: Washington, D.C. DOB ????, Conemaugh Township,
Cambria County, Pa. Issued: 7 Apr 1898.
Citation: While commanding the regiment, charged down the
mountain side at midnight, in a heavy rain, upon the enemy's fleeing wagon
train. Many wagons were captured and destroyed and many prisoners taken.
HANNA, MARCUS A. July 04, 1863
Port Hudson, La
Rank and organization: Sgt, Co B, 50th
Massachusetts Inf. Inducted: Rockport, Mass. DOB 3 Nov 1842, Bristol, ME.
Issued: 2 Nov 1895.
Citation: Voluntarily exposed himself to a heavy fire to
get water for comrades in rifle pits.
ANDERSON, ROBERT July 10, 1863
Charleston, SC
Rank and organization: Quartermaster,
USN. DOB 1841, Ireland. Accredited to: New Hampshire. G.O.#17, 10 Jul 1863.
Citation:. Served on board the USS Crusader and the Keokuk
during various actions of those vessels. Carrying out his duties skillfully
while on board the USS Crusader, Q.M. Anderson, on all occasions, set forth
the greatest intrepidity and devotion. During the attack on Charleston,
while serving on board the USS Keokuk, Q.M. Anderson was stationed at the
wheel when shot penetrated the house and, with the scattering of the iron,
used his own body as a shield for his commanding officer
HIBSON, JOSEPH C. July 13, 1863
Near Fort Wagner, S.C.
Rank and organization: Pvt, Co C, 48th
New York Inf. Inducted: New York, N.Y. Born: England. Issued: 23 Oct 1897.
Citation: While voluntarily performing picket duty under
fire on 13 Jul 1863, was attacked and his surrender demanded, but he killed
his assailant. The day following responded to a call for a volunteer to
reconnoiter the enemy's position, and went within the enemy's lines under
fire and was exposed to great danger. On 18 Jul voluntarily exposed himself
with great gallantry during an assault, and received 3 wounds that permanently
disabled him for active service.
HOLTON, CHARLES M. July 14,
1863
Falling Waters, Va.
Rank and organization: 1st Sgt, Co A, 7th Michigan Cav. Inducted: Battle
Creek, Mich. DOB 25 May 1838, Potter, N.Y. Issued: 21 March 1889.
Citation: Capture of flag of 55th Virginia Inf (CSA). In
the midst of the battle with foot soldiers he dismounted to capture the
flag
CARNEY, WILLIAM H. July 18, 1863
FORT WAGNER, S.C.
Rank and organization: Sgt, Co C, 54th Massachusetts Colored Inf. Inducted:
New Bedford, Mass. Born: Norfolk, Va. Issued: 23 May 1900.
Citation: When the color sergeant was shot down, this soldier
grasped the flag, led the way to the parapet, and planted the colors thereon.
When the troops fell back he brought off the flag, under a fierce fire
in which he was twice severely wounded.
HASTINGS, SMITH H. July 24, 1863
Newbys Crossroads, Va.
Rank and organization: Captain, Co M,
5th Michigan Cav. Born: Quincy, Mich. Issued: 2 Aug 1897.
Citation: While in command of a squadron in rear guard of
a cavalry division, then retiring before the advance of a corps of infantry,
was attacked by the enemy and, orders having been given to abandon the
guns of a section of field artillery with the rear guard that were in imminent
danger of capture, he disregarded the orders received and aided in repelling
the attack and saving the guns.
WOODRUFF, CARLE A. July 24,
1863
Newbys Crossroads, Va.
Rank and organization: 1Lt, 2d US Artillery. Inducted: Washington,
D.C. DOB Buffalo, N.Y. Issued: 1 Sep 1893.
Citation: While in command of a section of a battery constituting
a portion of the rear guard of a division then retiring before the advance
of a corps of Inf was attacked by the enemy and ordered to abandon his
guns. Lt. Woodruff disregarded the orders received and aided in repelling
the attack and saving the guns.
CLlFFORD, ROBERT T. August
22, 1863
Rank and organization: Master-at-Arms, USN. DOB 1835, Pennsylvania.
Accredited to: Pennsylvania. G.O.#45, 31 Dec 1864.
Citation: Served on board the USS Shokokon at New Topsail
Inlet off Wilmington, N.C, 22 Aug 1863. Participating in a strategic plan
to destroy an enemy schooner, Clifford aided in the portage of a dinghy
across the narrow neck of land separating the sea from the sound. Launching
the boat in the sound, the crew approached the enemy from the rear and
Clifford gallantly crept into the rebel camp and counted the men who outnumbered
his party 3 to 1. Returning to his men, he ordered a charge in which the
enemy was routed, leaving behind a schooner and a quantity of supplies.
SLUSHER, HENRY C. September 11,
1863
Moorefield, W. Va.
Rank and organization: Pvt, Co F, 22d Pennsylvania Cav. Born: Washington
County, Pa. Issued: 4 Apr 1898.
Citation: Voluntarily crossed a branch of the Potomac River
under fire to rescue a wounded comrade held prisoner by the enemy. Was
wounded and taken prisoner in the attempt.
REED, AXEL H. September 19, 1863
Chickamauga, Ga
Rank and organization: Sgt, Co K, 2d Minnesota
Inf. Action: At Chickamauga, Ga, 19 Sep 1863; At Missionary Ridge, Tenn,
25 Nov 1863. Inducted: Glencoe, Minn. Born: Maine. Issued: 2 Apr 1898.
Citation: While in arrest at Chickamauga, Ga, left his place
in the rear and voluntarily went to the line of battle, secured a rifle,
and fought gallantly during the 2-day battle; was released from arrest
in recognition of his bravery. At Missionary Ridge commanded his company
and gallantly led it, being among the first to enter the enemy's works;
was severely wounded, losing an arm, but declined a discharge and remained
in active service to the end of the war.
RICHEY, WILLIAM E. September 19,
1863
Chickamauga, Ga
Rank and organization: Cpl, Co A, 15th Ohio Inf. Born: Athens County,
Ohio. Issued: 9 Nov 1893.
Citation: While on the extreme front, between the lines of
the combatants single-handed he captured a Confederate major who was armed
and mounted.
CARSON, WILLIAM J. September 19,
1863
Chickamauga, Ga
Rank and organization:- Musician, Co E, 1st Battalion, 15th US Inf.
Inducted: North Greenfield, Ohio. Born: Washington County, Pa. Issued:
27 Jan 1894.
Citation: At a critical stage in the battle when the 14th
Corps lines were wavering and in disorder he on his own initiative bugled
"to the colors" amid the 18th US Inf who formed by him, and held
the enemy. Within a few minutes he repeated his action amid the wavering
2d Ohio Inf. This bugling deceived the enemy who believed reinforcements
had arrived. Thus, they delayed their attack
MYERS, GEORGE S. September, 19, 1863
Chickamauga, Ga
Rank and organization: Pvt, Co F, 101st
Ohio Inf. Born: Fairfield, Ohio. Issued: 9 Apr 1894.
Citation: Saved the regimental colors by greatest personal
devotion and bravery.
CHAMBERLAIN, ORVILLE T. September, 20,1863
Chickamauga, Ga
Rank and organization: 2Lt, Co G, 74th
Indiana Inf. Inducted: Elkhart, Ind. Born: Kosciusko County, Ind. Issued:
1 I March 1896.
Citation: While exposed to a galling fire, went in search
of another regiment, found its location, procured ammunition from the men
thereof, and returned with the ammunition to his own company.
CILLEY, CLINTON A. September 20,1863
Chickamauga, Ga
Rank and organization: Captain, Co C,
2d Minnesota Inf. Inducted: Sasioja, Minn. Born: Rockingham County, N.H.
Issued: 12 Jun 1895.
Citation: Seized the colors of a retreating regiment and
led it into the thick of the attack.
PORTER, HORACE September 20, 1863
Chickamauga, Ga
Rank and organization: Captain, Ordnance
Department, US Army. Inducted: Harrisburgh, Pa. DOB 15 Apr 1837, Huntington,
Pa. Issued: 8 Jul 1902.
Citation: While acting as a volunteer aide, at a critical
moment when the lines were broken, rallied enough fugitives to hold the
ground under heavy fire long enough to effect the escape of wagon trains
and batteries.
TAYLOR, ANTHONY September, 20, 1863
Chickamauga, Ga.
Rank and organization 1Lt, Co A, 15th
Pennsylvania Cav. Inducted: Philadelphia, Pa. DOB 11 Oct 1837, Burlington,
N.J. Issued: 4 Dec 1893.
Citation: Held out to the last with a small force against
the advance of superior numbers of the enemy.
LAWSON, GAINES October 3, 1863
Minville, Tenn
Rank and organization: 1st Sgt, Co D, 4th East Tennessee Inf. . Inducted:
Tennessee. DOB 1841, Hawkins County, Tenn. Issued: 11 Jun 1895.
Citation: Went to the aid of a wounded comrade between the
lines and carried him to a place of safety.
POND, JAMES B. October 6, 1863
Baxter Springs, Kansas
Rank and organization: 1Lt, Co C, 3d Wisconsin
Cav. Inducted: Janesville, Rock County, Wis. Born: Allegany, N.Y. Issued:
30 March 1898.
Citation: While in command of 2 companies of Cav, was surprised
and attacked by several times his own number of guerrillas, but gallantly
rallied his men, and after a severe struggle drove the enemy outside the
fortifications. 1st Lt. Pond then went outside the works and, alone and
unaided, fired a howitzer 3 times, throwing the enemy into confusion and
causing him to retire.
BATCHELDER, RICHARD N October 13-15
Between Catlett and Fairfax Stations
Rank and organization: LtCol and Chief
Quartermaster, 2d Corps. Inducted: Manchester, N.H. DOB 27 Jul 1832, Meredith,
N.H. Issued: 20 May 1895.
Citation: Being ordered to move his trains by a continuous
day-and-night march, and without the usual military escort, armed his teamsters
and personally commanded them, successfully fighting against heavy odds
and bringing his trains through without the loss of a wagon
CORSON, JOSEPH K. October 14, 1863
Near Bristoe Station
Rank and organization: Asst Surgeon, 6th
Pennsylvania Reserves (35th Pennsylvania Volunteers). Inducted: Philadelphia,
Pa. DOB 26 Nov 1836, Plymouth Meeting, Montgomery County, Pa. Issued: 13
May 1899.
Citation: With one companion returned in the face of the
enemy's heavy artillery fire and removed to a place of safety a severely
wounded soldier who had been left behind as the regiment fell back.
CULLEN, THOMAS October 14, 1863
Bristoe Station
Rank and organization: Cpl, Co I, 82d
New York Inf. . Born: Ireland. Issued: 1 Dec 1864.
Citation: Capture of flag of 22d or 28th North Carolina (CSA).
DOUGHERTY, MICHAEL October 12, 1863
Jefferson, Va
Rank and organization: Pvt, Co B, 13th
Pennsylvania Cav. Inducted: Philadelphia, Pa. DOB 10 May 1844, Ireland.
Issued: 23 Jan 1897.
Citation: At the head of a detachment of his company dashed
across an open field, exposed to a deadly fire from the enemy, and succeeded
in dislodging them from an unoccupied house, which he and his comrades
defended for several hours against repeated attacks, thus preventing the
enemy from flanking the position of the Union forces
HANSCOM, MOSES C. October 14, 1863
At Bristoe Station
Rank and organization: Cpl, Co F, 19th
Maine Inf. Inducted: Bowdoinham, ME. Born: Danville, ME. Issued: 1 Dec
1864.
Citation: Capture of the flag of 26th North Carolina (CSA).
SACRISTE, LOUIS J. October 14, 1863
Auburn, Va.
Rank and organization: 1Lt, Co D, 116th
Pennsylvania Inf. Action: At Chancellorsville, Va, 3 May 1863. At Auburn,
Va, 14 Oct 1863. Inducted: Philadelphia, Pa. DOB 15 Jun 1843, New Castle
County, Del. Issued: 3I Jan 1889.
Citation: Saved from capture a gun of the 5th Maine Battery.
Voluntarily carried orders which resulted in saving from destruction or
capture the picket line of the 1st Division, 2d Army Corps.
URELL, M. EMMET October 14, 1863
Bristoe Station, Va.
Rank and organization: Pvt, Co E, 82d
New York Inf. Born: Ireland. Issued: 6 Jun 1870.
Citation: Gallantry in action while detailed as color bearer;
was severely wounded.
SEWARD, GRIFFIN October 20, 1863
Chiricahva Mountains, Ariz.
Rank and organization: Wagoner, Co G,
8th US Cav. Born: Dover, Del. Issued: 14 Feb 1870.
Citation: Gallantry in action.
VEALE, MOSES October 28, 1863
Wauhatchie, Tenn.
Rank and organization: Captain, Co F,
109th Pennsylvania Inf. Inducted: Philadelphia, Pa. Born. 9 Nov 1832, Bridgeton,
N.J. Issued: 17 Jan 1894.
Citation: Gallantry in action manifesting throughout the
engagement coolness, zeal, judgment, and courage. His horse was shot from
under him and he was hit by 4 enemy bullets.
MARLAND, WILLIAM November 3, 1863
Grand Coteau, La
Rank and organization: 1Lt, 2d Independent Battery, Massachusetts Light
Artillery. DOB 11 March 1839, Andover, Mass. Issued: 16 Feb 1897.
Citation: After having been surrounded by the enemy's cavalry,
his support having surrendered, he ordered a charge and saved the section
of the battery that was under his command.
MORRILL, WALTER G. November 7, 1863
Rappahannock Station
Rank and organization: Captain, Co B,
20th Maine Inf. Inducted: Brownville, ME. Born: Brownville, ME. Issued:
5 Apr 1898.
Citation: Learning that an assault was to be made upon the
enemy's works by other troops, this officer voluntarily joined the storming
party with about 50 men of his regiment, and by his dash and gallantry
rendered effective service in the assault.
HALL, HENRY SEYMOUR November 7, 1863
Gaines Mills, Va (June 27, 1862) and Rappahannock Station
Rank and organization: 2Lt, Co G, 27th
New York Inf; and Captain, Co F, 121st New York Inf. Inducted: New York.
Born: New York. Issued: 17 Aug 1891.
Citation: Although wounded at Gaines Mill, Va, he remained
on duty and participated in the battle with his company. At Rappahannock
Station, Va, while acting as aide, rendered gallant and prompt assistance
in reforming the regiments inside the enemy's works.
ROBERTS, OTIS O. November 7, 1863
Rappahannock Station
Rank and organization: Sgt, Co H, 6th
Maine Inf. Inducted: Dexter, ME. Born: Sangerville, ME. Issued: 28 Dec
1863.
Citation: Capture of flag of 8th Louisiana Inf (CSA) in a
hand-to-hand struggle with the color bearer.
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