Mifflin enlisted in the Navy from his home state of Virginia in April 1864,[1] and by August 5, 1864 was serving as an Engineer's Cook on the USS Brooklyn (1858). During the Battle of Mobile Bay, Alabama, Mifflin stood fast and performed his ammunition supply duties despite enemy shellfire. For his conduct during this battle, he was awarded the Medal of Honor.
Medal of Honor citation
Rank and Organization:
Engineer's Cook, U.S. Navy. Born: 1839, Richmond, Va. Accredited to: Virginia. G.O. No.: 45, December 31, 1864.
Citation:
On board the U.S.S. Brooklyn during successful attacks against Fort Morgan, rebel gunboats and the ram CSS Tennessee (1863) in Mobile Bay, 5 August 1864. Stationed in the immediate vicinity of the shell whips which were twice cleared of men by bursting shells, Mifflin remained steadfast at his post and performed his duties in the powder division throughout the furious action which resulted in the surrender of the prize rebel ram Tennessee and in the damaging and destruction of batteries at Fort Morgan.[2]