List of American Civil War Medal of Honor recipients: Q–S
The Medal of Honor is the highest military decoration awarded by the United States government and is bestowed on a member of the United States armed forces who distinguishes himself "…conspicuously by gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty while engaged in an action against an enemy of the United States…" Due to the nature of this medal, it is commonly presented posthumously.[ 1]
Many of the awards during the Civil War were for capturing or saving regimental flags. During the Civil War, regimental flags served as the rallying point for the unit, and guided the unit's movements. Loss of the flag could greatly disrupt a unit, and could have a greater effect than the death of the commanding officer.
Recipients are listed alphabetically by last name. Posthumous receipt is denoted by an asterisk.
Q
Recipients are listed alphabetically by last name. Posthumous receipt is denoted by an asterisk.
This along with the *, indicates that the Medal of Honor was awarded posthumously
R
Recipients are listed alphabetically by last name. Posthumous receipt is denoted by an asterisk.
This along with the *, indicates that the Medal of Honor was awarded posthumously
Image
Name
Service
Rank
Unit/Command
Place of action
Date of action
Notes
Medal of Honor winner Peter F. Rafferty
Peter Rafferty
Army
E-01 Private
Company B, 69th New York Infantry
Battle of Malvern Hill , Virginia
Jul 1, 1862
Having been wounded and directed to the rear, declined to go, but continued in action, receiving several additional wounds, which resulted in his capture by the enemy and his total disability for military service.
—
Alfred Ramsbottom
Army
First Sergeant
Company K, 97th Ohio Infantry
Second Battle of Franklin , Tennessee
Nov 30, 1864
Captured the flag of the 2d Mississippi Infantry (C.S.A.), in a hand-to-hand fight with the color bearer.
Medal of Honor winner Charles Franklin Rand
Charles F. Rand
Army
E-01 Private
Company K, 12th New York Infantry
Battle of Blackburn's Ford , Virginia
Jul 18, 1861
Remained in action when a part of his regiment broke in disorder, joined another company, and fought with it through the remainder of the engagement.
—
John Rannahan
Marine Corps
E-04 Corporal
USS Minnesota
USS Minnesota Landing Party, Second Battle of Fort Fisher
Jan 15, 1865
On board USS Minnesota in the assault on Fort Fisher, 15 January 1865.
Medal of Honor winner George E Ranney
George E. Ranney
Army
Assistant Surgeon
2nd Michigan Volunteer Cavalry Regiment
Battle of Resaca , Georgia
May 14, 1864
At great personal risk, went to the aid of a wounded soldier, Pvt. Charles W. Baker, lying under heavy fire between the lines, and with the aid of an orderly carried him to a place of safety.
—
Myron H. Ranney
Army
E-01 Private
Company G, 13th New York Volunteer Infantry
Second Battle of Bull Run , Virginia
Aug 30, 1862
Picked up the colors and carried them off the field after the color bearer had been shot down; was himself wounded.
—
Edward Ratcliff
Army
First Sergeant
Company C, 38th U.S. Colored Troops
Battle of Chaffin's Farm , Virginia
Sep 29, 1864
Commanded and gallantly led his company after the commanding officer had been killed; was the first enlisted man to enter the enemy's works.
Medal of Honor winner Jacob F Raub
Jacob F. Raub
Army
Assistant Surgeon
210th Pennsylvania Infantry Regiment
Battle of Hatcher's Run , Virginia
Feb 5, 1865
Discovering a flank movement by the enemy, appraised the commanding general at great peril, and though a noncombatant voluntarily participated with the troops in repelling this attack.
Medal of Honor winner William H Raymond
William H. Raymond
Army
E-04 Corporal
Company A, 108th New York Volunteer Infantry
Battle of Gettysburg , Pennsylvania
Jul 3, 1863
Voluntarily and under a severe fire brought a box of ammunition to his comrades on the skirmish line.
—
Charles Read
Navy
Ordinary Seaman
USS Magnolia
USS Magnolia Landing Party, Battle of Natural Bridge
March 6, 1865
As seaman on board USS Magnolia , St. Marks, Florida, 5 and 6 March 1865.
—
Charles A. Read
Navy
Coxswain
USS Kearsarge
Aboard USS Kearsarge off Cherbourg , France
June 19, 1864
Served as coxswain on board USS Kearsarge when she destroyed Alabama off Cherbourg, France, 19 June 1864.
—
George E. Read
Navy
Seaman
USS Kearsarge
Aboard USS Kearsarge off Cherbourg , France
June 19, 1864
Served as seaman on board USS Kearsarge when she destroyed Alabama off Cherbourg, France, 19 June 1864.
—
Morton A. Read
Army
Lieutenant
Company D, 8th New York Volunteer Cavalry Regiment
Battle of Appomattox Station , Virginia
Apr 8, 1865
Capture of flag of 1st Texas Infantry (C.S.A.).
—
George F. Rebmann
Army
E-05 Sergeant
Company B, 119th Illinois Infantry Regiment
Battle of Fort Blakeley , Alabama
Apr 9, 1865
Capture of flag.
William H. Reddick
Army
E-04 Corporal
Company B, 33rd Ohio Volunteer Infantry Regiment
Great Locomotive Chase , Georgia
Apr 1862
Sixth person to receive Medal of Honor
Medal of Honor winner Axel Hayford Reed
Axel H. Reed
Army
E-05 Sergeant
Company K, 2nd Minnesota Volunteer Infantry Regiment
Battle of Chickamauga , Georgia and Battle of Missionary Ridge , Tenn.
Sep 19, 1863 and Nov 25, 1863
While in arrest at Chickamauga, Georgia , left his place in the rear and voluntarily went to the line of battle, secured a rifle, and fought gallantly during the two-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.
Medal of Honor winner Charles Wellington Reed
Charles W. Reed
Army
Bugler
9th Independent Battery, Massachusetts Light Artillery
Battle of Gettysburg , Pennsylvania
Jul 2, 1863
Rescued his wounded captain from between the lines.
—
George W. Reed
Army
E-01 Private
Company E, 11th Pennsylvania Infantry Regiment
Battle of Globe Tavern , Virginia
Aug 21, 1864
Capture of flag of 24th North Carolina Volunteers (C.S.A.).
—
William Reed
Army
E-01 Private
Company H, 8th Missouri Volunteer Infantry
Battle of Vicksburg , Mississippi
May 22, 1863
Gallantry in the charge of the "volunteer storming party."
Medal of Honor winner Charles Avery Reeder
Charles A. Reeder
Army
E-01 Private
Company G, 12th West Virginia Volunteer Infantry Regiment
Fort Gregg, Third Battle of Petersburg , Virginia
Apr 2, 1865
Capture of flag
—
Jeremiah Regan
Navy
Quartermaster
USS Galena
Aboard USS Galena , Drewry's Bluff
May 15, 1862
As captain of No. 2 gun on board USS Galena in the attack upon Drewry's Bluff, 15 May 1862.
Medal of Honor winner Robert Alexander Reid
Robert Reid
Army
E-01 Private
Company G, 48th Pennsylvania Infantry Regiment
Second Battle of Petersburg , Virginia
Jun 17, 1864
Capture of flag of 44th Tennessee Infantry (C.S.A.).
Medal of Honor winner Daniel Peter Reigle
Daniel P. Reigle
Army
E-04 Corporal
Company F, 87th Pennsylvania Infantry
Battle of Cedar Creek , Virginia
Oct 19, 1864
For gallantry while rushing forward to capture a Confederate flag at the stone fence where the enemy's last stand was made.
Medal of Honor winner James Monroe Reisinger
J. Monroe Reisinger
Army
E-04 Corporal
Company H, 150th Pennsylvania Infantry Regiment
Battle of Gettysburg , Pennsylvania
Jul 1, 1863
Specially brave and meritorious conduct in the face of the enemy. Awarded under Act of Congress, January 25, 1907.
—
Louis Renninger
Army
E-04 Corporal
Company H, 37th Ohio Volunteer Infantry Regiment
Battle of Vicksburg , Mississippi
May 22, 1863
Gallantry in the charge of the "volunteer storming party."
—
George Reynolds
Army
E-01 Private
Company M, 9th New York Volunteer Cavalry Regiment
Battle of Opequon , Virginia
Sep 19, 1864
Capture of Virginia State flag.
Medal of Honor winner Julius Dexter Rhodes
Julius D. Rhodes
Army
E-01 Private
Company F, 5th New York Cavalry Regiment
Battle of Thoroughfare Gap , Virginia and Second Battle of Bull Run , Virginia
Aug 28, 1862 and Aug 30, 1862
After having had his horse shot under him in the fight at Thoroughfare Gap, Virginia, he voluntarily joined the 105th New York Volunteers and was conspicuous in the advance on the enemy's lines. Displayed gallantry in the advance on the skirmish line at Bull Run, Virginia, where he was wounded.
Medal of Honor winner Sylvester D Rhodes
Sylvester D. Rhodes
Army
E-05 Sergeant
Company D, 61st Pennsylvania Infantry Regiment
Battle of Fisher's Hill , Virginia
Sep 22, 1864
Was on the skirmish line which drove the enemy from the first entrenchment and was the first man to enter the breastworks, capturing one of the guns and turning it upon the enemy.
—
Charles Rice
Navy
Coal Heaver
USS Agawam
Aboard USS Agawam , First Battle of Fort Fisher
December 23, 1864
On board USS Agawam , as one of a volunteer crew of a powder boat which was exploded near Fort Fisher, 23 December 1864.
Edmund Rice
Army
Major
19th Massachusetts Volunteer Infantry Regiment
Battle of Gettysburg , Pennsylvania
Jul 3, 1863
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.
—
Carlos H. Rich
Army
First Sergeant
Company K, 4th Vermont Volunteer Infantry Regiment
Battle of the Wilderness , Virginia
May 5, 1864
Saved the life of an officer.
—
Louis Richards
Navy
Quartermaster
USS Pensacola
Aboard USS Pensacola , Battle of Forts Jackson and St. Philip
Apr 24, 1862 – Apr 25, 1862
Richards served as quartermaster on board USS Pensacola in the attack upon Forts Jackson and St. Philip, and at the taking of New Orleans, 24 and 25 April 1862.
—
William R. Richardson
Army
E-01 Private
Company A, 2nd Ohio Cavalry
Battle of Sayler's Creek , Virginia
Apr 6, 1865
Having been captured and taken to the rear, made his escape rejoined the Union lines, and furnished information of great importance as to the enemy's position and the approaches thereto.
Medal of Honor winner William E Richey
William E. Richey
Army
E-04 Corporal
Company F, 2nd Ohio Cavalry
Battle of Chickamauga , Georgia
Sep 19, 1863
While on the extreme front, between the lines of the combatants single-handed he captured a Confederate major who was armed and mounted.
—
James Richmond *
Army
E-01 Private
Company F, 8th Ohio Infantry
Battle of Gettysburg , Pennsylvania
Jul 3, 1863
Capture of flag.
—
John H. Ricksecker
Army
E-01 Private
Company D, 104th Ohio Infantry
Second Battle of Franklin , Tennessee
Nov 30, 1864
Capture of flag of 16th Alabama Artillery (C.S.A.).
—
Rudolph R. Riddell
Army
Lieutenant
Company I, 61st New York Volunteer Infantry Regiment
Battle of Sayler's Creek , Virginia
Apr 6, 1865
Captured the flag of the 6th Alabama Cavalry (C.S.A.).
—
Thomas Riley
Army
E-01 Private
Company D, 1st Louisiana Cavalry Regiment
Battle of Fort Blakeley , Alabama
Apr 4, 1865
Captured the flag of the 6th Alabama Cavalry.
—
Edward Ringold
Navy
Coxswain
USS Wabash
USS Wabash Landing Party, Pocotaligo, South Carolina
Oct 22, 1862
Served on board USS Wabash .
William Y. W. Ripley
Army
Lieutenant Colonel
1st United States Sharpshooters
Battle of Malvern Hill , Virginia
Jul 1, 1862
At a critical moment brought up two regiments, which he led against the enemy himself, being severely wounded.
—
James S. Roantree
Marine Corps
E-05 Sergeant
USS Oneida
Aboard USS Oneida , Battle of Mobile Bay
Aug 5, 1864
On board USS Oneida during action against rebel forts and gunboats and with the ram Tennessee in Mobile Bay, 5 August 1864.
—
Augustus I. Robbins
Army
O-01 Second Lieutenant
Company B, 2nd Vermont Volunteer Infantry Regiment
Battle of Spotsylvania Court House , Virginia
May 12, 1864
While voluntarily serving as a staff officer successfully withdrew a regiment across and around a severely exposed position to the rest of the command; was severely wounded.
—
James Roberts
Navy
Seaman
USS Agawam
Aboard USS Agawam , First Battle of Fort Fisher
December 23, 1864
Roberts served on board USS Agawam , as one of a volunteer crew of a powder boat which was exploded near Fort Fisher, 23 December 1864.
—
Otis O. Roberts
Army
E-05 Sergeant
Company H, 6th Maine Volunteer Infantry
Second Battle of Rappahannock Station , Virginia
Nov 7, 1863
Capture of flag of 8th Louisiana Infantry (C.S.A.) in a hand-to-hand struggle with the color bearer.
Medal of Honor winner Robert Stoddart Robertson
Robert S. Robertson
Army
O-02 First Lieutenant
Company K, 93rd New York Volunteer Infantry
Corbins Bridge, Virginia
May 8, 1864
While acting as aide-de-camp to a general officer, seeing a regiment break to the rear, he seized its colors, rode with them to the front in the face of the advancing enemy, and rallied the retreating regiment.
Samuel Robertson *
Army
E-01 Private
Company G, 33rd Ohio Infantry
Great Locomotive Chase , Georgia
Apr 1862
One of the 19 of 22 men (including 2 civilians) who by direction of General Mitchell (or Buell) penetrated nearly 200 miles south into enemy territory and captured a railroad train at Big Shanty, Georgia , in an attempt to destroy the bridges and tracks between Chattanooga and Atlanta.
Medal of Honor winner George Frank Robie
George F. Robie
Army
E-05 Sergeant
Company D, 7th New Hampshire Volunteer Infantry Regiment
before Richmond, Virginia
Sep 1864
Gallantry on the skirmish line.
—
Alexander Robinson
Navy
Boatswain's Mate
USS Howquah
Aboard USS Howquah
September 25, 1864
Served as boatswain's mate on board USS Howquah on the occasion of the destruction of the blockade runner, Lynx , off Wilmington, 25 September 1864.
—
Charles Robinson
Navy
Boatswain's Mate
USS Baron DeKalb
Aboard USS Baron DeKalb , Yazoo Pass Expedition
Dec 23, 1862 – Dec 27, 1862
Serving on board USS Baron de Kalb , Yazoo River Expedition, 23 to 27 December 1862.
Medal of Honor winner Elbridge Robinson
Elbridge Robinson
Army
E-01 Private
Company C, 122nd Ohio Infantry
Second Battle of Winchester , Virginia
Jun 14, 1863
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.
—
James H. Robinson
Army
E-01 Private
Company B, 3rd Michigan Volunteer Cavalry Regiment
Brownsville, Arkansas
Jan 27, 1865
Successfully defended himself, single-handed against 7 guerrillas, killing the leader (Captain W. C. Stephenson) and driving off the remainder of the party.
John C. Robinson
Army
Brigadier General
Commander, 2nd Division, V Corps , Army of the Potomac
Laurel Hill, Virginia
May 8, 1864
Placed himself at the head of the leading brigade in a charge upon the enemy's breastworks; was severely wounded.
—
John H. Robinson
Army
E-01 Private
Company I, 19th Massachusetts Volunteer Infantry Regiment
Battle of Gettysburg , Pennsylvania
Jul 3, 1863
Capture of flag of 57th Virginia Infantry (C.S.A.).
—
Thomas Robinson
Army
E-01 Private
Company H, 81st Pennsylvania Infantry
Battle of Spotsylvania Court House , Virginia
May 12, 1864
Capture of flag in a hand-to-hand conflict.
—
Frederick Rock
Army
E-01 Private
Company A, 37th Ohio Infantry
Battle of Vicksburg , Mississippi
May 22, 1863
Gallantry in the charge of the "volunteer storming party."
Medal of Honor winner Charles Mortimer Rockefeller
Charles M. Rockefeller
Army
Lieutenant
Company A, 178th New York Volunteer Infantry Regiment
Battle of Fort Blakeley , Alabama
Apr 9, 1865
Voluntarily and alone, under a heavy fire, obtained valuable information which a reconnoitering party of 25 men had previously attempted and failed to obtain, suffering severe loss in the attempt.
Theophilus F. Rodenbough
Army
O-03 Captain
2nd U.S. Cavalry Regiment
Battle of Trevilian Station , Virginia
Jun 11, 1864
Handled the regiment with great skill and valor, was severely wounded.
—
Ferdinand F. Rohm
Army
Chief Bugler
16th Pennsylvania Cavalry
Reams Station, Virginia
Aug 25, 1864
While his regiment was retiring under fire voluntarily remained behind to succor a wounded officer who was in great danger, secured assistance, and removed the officer to a place of safety.
—
Oliver P. Rood
Army
E-01 Private
Company B, 20th Indiana Infantry Regiment
Battle of Gettysburg , Pennsylvania
Jul 3, 1863
Capture of flag of 21st North Carolina Infantry (C.S.A.).
George W. Roosevelt
Army
First Sergeant
Company K. 26th Pennsylvania Infantry Regiment
Second Battle of Bull Run , Virginia and Battle of Gettysburg , Pennsylvania
Aug 30, 1862 and Jul 2, 1863
At Bull Run, Virginia , recaptured the colors, which had been seized by the enemy. At Gettysburg captured a Confederate color bearer and color, in which effort he was severely wounded.
Marion A. Ross *
Army
E-05 Sergeant Major
2nd Ohio Infantry
Great Locomotive Chase , Georgia
Apr 1862
Nineteen of 22 men (including 2 civilians) who, by direction of General Mitchell (or Buell), penetrated nearly 200 miles south into the enemy's territory and captured a railroad train at Big Shanty, Georgia , in an attempt to destroy the bridges and track between Chattanooga and Atlanta.
—
Valentine Rossbach
Army
E-05 Sergeant
34th New York Battery
Spotsylvania, Virginia
May 12, 1864
Encouraged his cannoneers to hold a very dangerous position, and when all depended on several good shots it was from his piece that the most effective were delivered, causing the enemy's fire to cease and thereby relieving the critical position of the Federal troops.
Medal of Honor winner Stephen Rought
Stephen Rought
Army
E-05 Sergeant
Company A, 141st Pennsylvania Infantry
Battle of the Wilderness , Virginia
May 6, 1864
Capture of flag of 13th North Carolina Infantry (C.S.A.).
—
Lewis A. Rounds
Army
E-01 Private
Company D, 8th Ohio Infantry
Battle of Spotsylvania Court House , Virginia
May 12, 1864
Capture of flag.
—
John Rountry
Navy
First Class Fireman
USS Montauk
Aboard USS Montauk
September 21, 1864
Served as first class fireman on board USS Montauk , 21 September 1864.
Medal of Honor winner J Levi Roush
J. Levi Roush
Army
E-04 Corporal
Company D, 6th Pennsylvania Reserve Regiment
Battle of Gettysburg , Pennsylvania
Jul 2, 1863
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.
Medal of Honor winner Archibald Hamilton Rowand Jr
Archibald H. Rowand, Jr.
Army
E-01 Private
Company K, 1st West Virginia Cavalry
Winter of 1864–65
Was one of two men who succeeded in getting through the enemy's lines with dispatches to General Grant.
Medal of Honor winner Henry Walker Rowe
Henry W. Rowe
Army
E-01 Private
Company I, 11th Regiment New Hampshire Volunteer Infantry
Second Battle of Petersburg , Virginia
Jun 17, 1864
With two companions, he rushed and disarmed 27 enemy pickets, capturing a stand of flags.
Charles W. Rundle
Army
E-01 Private
Company A, 116th Illinois Volunteer Infantry Regiment
Battle of Vicksburg , Mississippi
May 22, 1863
Gallantry in the charge of the "volunteer storming party."
—
John Rush
Navy
First Class Fireman
USS Richmond
Aboard USS Richmond , Farragut's attack on Port Hudson
March 14, 1863
Serving on board USS Richmond in the attack on Port Hudson, 14 March 1863.
—
Charles L. Russell
Army
E-04 Corporal
Company H, 93rd New York Volunteer Infantry
Battle of Spotsylvania Court House , Virginia
May 12, 1864
Capture of flag of 42d Virginia Infantry (C.S.A.).
Medal of Honor winner Milton T Russell
Milton Russell
Army
O-03 Captain
Company A, 51st Indiana Infantry
Stone River, Tennessee
Dec 29, 1862
Was the first man to cross Stone River and, in the face of a galling fire from the concealed skirmishers of the enemy, led his men up the hillside, driving the opposing skirmishers before them.
Medal of Honor winner John T Rutherford
John T. Rutherford
Army
O-02 First Lieutenant
Company L, 9th New York Volunteer Cavalry Regiment
Battle of Yellow Tavern , Virginia and Hanovertown, Virginia
May 11, 1864 and May 27, 1864
Made a successful charge at Yellow Tavern, Virginia , 11 May 1864, by which 90 prisoners were captured. On 27 May 1864, in a gallant dash on a superior force of the enemy and in a personal encounter, captured his opponent.
Medal of Honor winner James May Rutter
James M. Rutter
Army
E-05 Sergeant
Company L, 143rd Pennsylvania Infantry Regiment
Battle of Gettysburg , Pennsylvania
Jul 1, 1863
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.
Medal of Honor winner Peter J Ryan
Peter J. Ryan
Army
E-01 Private
Company D, 11th Indiana Infantry Regiment
Battle of Opequon , Virginia
Sep 19, 1864
With one companion, captured 14 Confederates in the severest part of the battle.
S
Recipients are listed alphabetically by last name. Posthumous receipt is denoted by an asterisk.
This along with the *, indicates that the Medal of Honor was awarded posthumously
Image
Name
Service
Rank
Unit/Command
Place of action
Date of action
Notes
Medal of Honor winner Louis Jeanolette Sacriste 1885
Louis J. Sacriste
Army
First Lieutenant
Company D, 116th Pennsylvania Infantry
Battle of Chancellorsville , Virginia and Second Battle of Auburn , Virginia
May 3, 1863 and Oct 14, 1863
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.
—
John C. Sagelhurst
Army
Sergeant
Company B, 1st New Jersey Cavalry
Battle of Hatcher's Run , Virginia
Feb 6, 1865
Under a heavy fire from the enemy carried off the field a commissioned officer who was severely wounded and also led a charge on the enemy's rifle pits.
—
Charles F. Sancrainte
Army
E-01 Private
Company B, 15th Michigan Volunteer Infantry Regiment
Battle of Atlanta , Georgia
Jul 22, 1864
Voluntarily scaled the enemy's breastworks and signaled to his commanding officer in charge; also in single combat captured the colors of the 5th Texas Regiment (C.S.A.).
—
Aaron Sanderson
Navy
Landsman
USS Wyandank
USS Wyandank
March 17, 1865
Served on board USS Wyandank during a boat expedition up Mattox Creek, 17 March 1865. True name "Aaron Anderson".
William Sands
Army
First Sergeant
Company G, 88th Pennsylvania Infantry
Dabney's Mills, Virginia
Feb 6, 1865 – Feb 7, 1865
Grasped the enemy's colors in the face of a deadly fire and brought them inside the lines.
Medal of Honor winner Jacob Sanford 1893
Jacob Sanford
Army
E-01 Private
55th Illinois Volunteer Infantry Regiment
Battle of Vicksburg , Mississippi
May 22, 1863
Gallantry in the charge of the "volunteer storming party."
Medal of Honor winner Jackson George Sargent 1913
Jackson Sargent
Army
E-05 Sergeant
Company D, 5th Vermont Volunteer Infantry Regiment
Third Battle of Petersburg , Virginia
Apr 2, 1865
First to scale the enemy's works and plant the colors thereon.
—
Henry Sartwell
Army
E-05 Sergeant
Company D, 123rd New York Volunteer Infantry
Battle of Chancellorsville , Virginia
May 3, 1863
Was severely wounded by a gunshot in his left arm, went half a mile to the rear but insisted on returning to his company and continue to fight bravely until he became exhausted from the loss of blood and was compelled to retire from the field.
—
James Saunders
Navy
Quartermaster
USS Kearsarge
USS Kearsarge
June 19, 1864
Served as quartermaster on board USS Kearsarge when she destroyed Alabama off Cherbourg, France, 19 June 1864.
—
Edwin F. Savacool *
Army
O-03 Captain
Company K, 1st Regiment New York Volunteer Cavalry ("Lincoln Cavalry")
Battle of Sayler's Creek , Virginia
Apr 6, 1865
Capture of flag, during which he was wounded and died several days later in Washington, D.C.
—
Auzella Savage
Navy
Ordinary Seaman
USS Santiago de Cuba
Aboard USS Santiago de Cuba at Second Battle of Fort Fisher , North Carolina
Jan 15, 1865
On board USS Santiago de Cuba in the assault on Fort Fisher, 15 January 1865.
Rufus Saxton
Army
Brigadier General
Department of Maryland
Shenandoah Valley Campaign, Harpers Ferry , (at that time) Virginia
May 26, 1862 – May 30, 1862
Distinguished gallantry and good conduct in the defense.
—
Patrick Scanlan
Army
E-01 Private
Company A, 4th Massachusetts Volunteer Cavalry Regiment
Ashepoo River, South Carolina
May 24, 1864
Volunteered as a member of a boat crew which went to the rescue of a large number of Union soldiers on board the stranded steamer Boston, and with great gallantry assisted in conveying them to shore, being exposed during the entire time to a heavy fire from a Confederate battery.
Medal of Honor winner Martin E Scheibner 1913
Martin E. Scheibner
Army
E-01 Private
Company G, 90th Pennsylvania Infantry
Battle of Mine Run , Virginia
Nov 27, 1863
Voluntarily extinguished the burning fuse of a shell which had been thrown into the lines of the regiment by the enemy.
—
Benjamin W. Schenck
Army
E-01 Private
Company D, 116th Illinois Volunteer Infantry Regiment
Battle of Vicksburg , Mississippi
May 22, 1863
Gallantry in the charge of the "volunteer storming party.
—
John Schiller
Army
E-01 Private
Company E, 158th New York Volunteer Infantry Regiment
Battle of Chaffin's Farm , Virginia
Sep 29, 1864
Advanced to the ditch of the enemy's works.
—
Philipp Schlachter
Army
E-01 Private
Company F, 73rd New York Volunteer Infantry Regiment
Battle of Spotsylvania Court House , Virginia
May 12, 1864
Capture of flag of 15th Louisiana Infantry (C.S.A.).
—
George W. Schmal
Army
Blacksmith
Company M, 24th Regiment New York Volunteer Cavalry
Paines Crossroads, Virginia
Apr 5, 1865
Capture of flag.
—
Andrew Schmauch
Army
E-01 Private
Company A, 30th Ohio Volunteer Infantry
Battle of Vicksburg , Mississippi
May 22, 1863
Gallantry in the charge of the "volunteer storming party."
Conrad Schmidt
Army
First Sergeant
Company K, 2nd U.S. Cavalry Regiment
Battle of Opequon , Virginia
Sep 19, 1864
Went to the assistance of his regimental commander, whose horse had been killed under him in a charge, mounted the officer behind him, under a heavy fire from the enemy, and returned him to his command.
—
William Schmidt
Army
E-01 Private
Company G, 37th Ohio Volunteer Infantry Regiment
Battle of Missionary Ridge , Tenn.
Nov 25, 1863
Rescued a wounded comrade under terrific fire.
Medal of Honor winner George Schneider 1890
George Schneider
Army
E-05 Sergeant
Company G, 3rd Maryland Veteran Infantry
Battle of the Crater , Petersburg, Virginia
Jul 30, 1864
After the color sergeant had been shot down, seized the colors and planted them on the enemy's works during the charge.
—
Christian Schnell
Army
E-04 Corporal
Company C, 37th Ohio Infantry
Battle of Vicksburg , Mississippi
May 22, 1863
Gallantry in the charge of the "volunteer storming party."
John M. Schofield
Army
O-04 Major
1st Missouri Volunteer Infantry
Battle of Wilson's Creek , Missouri
Aug 10, 1861
Was conspicuously gallant in leading a regiment in a successful charge against the enemy.
James M. Schoonmaker
Army
O-06 Colonel
14th Pennsylvania Cavalry Regiment
Battle of Opequon , Virginia
Sep 19, 1864
At a critical period, gallantly led a cavalry charge against the left of the enemy's line of battle, drove the enemy out of his works, and captured many prisoners.
—
Charles Schorn
Army
Chief Bugler
Company M, 1st West Virginia Cavalry
Battle of Appomattox Station , Virginia
Apr 8, 1865
Capture of flag of the Sumter Flying Artillery (C.S.A.).
—
Martin Schubert (Medal of Honor)
Army
E-01 Private
Company E, 26th New York Volunteer Infantry Regiment
Battle of Fredericksburg , Virginia
Dec 13, 1862
Relinquished a furlough granted for wounds, entered the battle, where he picked up the colors after several bearers had been killed or wounded, and carried them until himself again wounded.
—
George Schutt
Navy
Coxswain
USS Hendrick Hudson
USS Hendrick Hudson
Mar 5, 1865 – Mar 6, 1865
As coxswain on board USS Hendrick Hudson , St. Marks, Florida, 5 and 6 March 1865.
Theodore Schwan
Army
O-02 First Lieutenant
10th U.S. Infantry Regiment
Battle of Peebles' Farm , Virginia
Oct 1, 1864
At the imminent risk of his own life, while his regiment was falling back before a superior force of the enemy, he dragged a wounded and helpless officer to the rear, thus saving him from death or capture.
—
Martin Schwenk
Army
E-05 Sergeant
Company B, 6th U.S. Cavalry
Millerstown, Pennsylvania
Jul 1863
Bravery in an attempt to carry a communication through the enemy's lines; also rescued an officer from the hands of the enemy.
—
David H. Scofield
Army
E-05 Quartermaster Sergeant
Company K. 5th Regiment New York Volunteer Cavalry "1st Ira Harris Guard"
Battle of Cedar Creek , Virginia
Oct 19, 1864
Capture of flag of 13th Virginia Infantry (C.S.A.).
Alexander Scott
Army
E-04 Corporal
Company D, 10th Vermont Infantry
Battle of Monocacy Junction , Maryland
Jul 9, 1864
Under a very heavy fire of the enemy saved the national flag of his regiment from capture.
John Morehead Scott *
Army
E-05 Sergeant
Company G, 21st Ohio Infantry
Great Locomotive Chase , Georgia
Apr 1862
One of the 19 of 22 men (including 2 civilians) who, by direction of General Mitchell (or Buell), penetrated nearly 200 miles south into enemy territory and captured a railroad train at Big Shanty, Georgia , and attempted to destroy the bridges and track between Chattanooga and Atlanta.
Bvt. Maj. John Wallace Scott, c. 1903
J. Wallace Scott
Army
O-03 Captain
Company F, 21st Ohio Infantry
Battle of Five Forks , Virginia
Apr 1, 1865
Capture of the flag of the 16th South Carolina Infantry, in hand-to-hand combat.
Julian A. Scott
Army
Drummer
Company E, 3rd Vermont Infantry
Battle of Lee's Mills , Virginia
April 16, 1862
Crossed the creek under a terrific fire of musketry several times to assist in bringing off the wounded.
—
Elisha B. Seaman
Army
E-01 Private
Company A, 66th Ohio Infantry
Battle of Chancellorsville , Virginia
May 2, 1863
Was one of party of four who voluntarily brought into the Union lines, under fire, a wounded Confederate officer from whom was obtained valuable information concerning the enemy.
—
James Seanor
Navy
Master at Arms
USS Chickasaw
USS Chickasaw at Fort Morgan , Battle of Mobile Bay , Alabama
Aug 5, 1864
Served as master-at-arms on board the ironclad USS Chickasaw , Mobile Bay, 5 August 1864.
Medal of Honor winner Cyrus Sears 1903
Cyrus Sears
Army
O-02 First Lieutenant
11th Battery, Ohio Light Artillery
Battle of Iuka , Mississippi
Sep 19, 1862
Although severely wounded, fought his battery until the cannoneers and horses were nearly all killed or wounded.
Medal of Honor winner Thomas Orville Seaver 1875
Thomas O. Seaver
Army
O-06 Colonel
3rd Vermont Infantry
Battle of Spotsylvania Court House , Virginia
May 10, 1864
At the head of three regiments and under a most galling fire attacked and occupied the enemy's works.
—
James M. Seitzinger
Army
E-01 Private
Company G, 116th Pennsylvania Infantry
Battle of Cold Harbor , Virginia
Jun 3, 1864
When the color bearer was shot down, this soldier seized the colors and bore them gallantly in a charge against the enemy.
Medal of Honor winner Alfred Jacob Sellers 1865
Alfred J. Sellers
Army
O-04 Major
90th Pennsylvania Infantry
Battle of Gettysburg , Pennsylvania
Jul 1, 1863
Voluntarily led the regiment under a withering fire to a position from which the enemy was repulsed.
—
Charles H. Seston *
Army
E-05 Sergeant
Company I, 11th Indiana Infantry
Battle of Opequon , Virginia
Sep 19, 1864
Gallant and meritorious service in carrying the regimental colors.
—
Richard H. Seward [ nb 1]
Navy
Paymaster's Steward
USS Commodore
USS Commodore
November 23, 1863
Recovered the bodies of two soldiers despite heavy fire
William J. Sewell
Army
O-06 Colonel
5th New Jersey Volunteer Infantry
Battle of Chancellorsville , Virginia
May 3, 1863
For assuming command of the brigade, rallying the troops, and remaining in command though wounded.
William R. Shafter
Army
O-02 First Lieutenant
Company I, 7th Michigan Infantry
Battle of Fair Oaks , Virginia
May 31, 1862
Remained in battle despite having been wounded.
—
Emisire Shahan
Army
E-04 Corporal
Company A, 1st West Virginia Cavalry
Battle of Sayler's Creek , Virginia
Apr 6, 1865
Capture of flag of 76th Georgia Infantry (C.S.A.).
Alexander Shaler
Army
O-06 Colonel
65th New York Volunteer Infantry
Marye's Heights, Virginia
May 3, 1863
As a charging column was about to be crushed by artillery and infantry fire, he pushed forward with a supporting column, pierced the enemy's works, and turned their flank.
—
Charles Shambaugh
Army
E-04 Corporal
Company D, 11th Pennsylvania Reserve Regiment
Charles City Crossroads , Virginia
Jun 30, 1862
Capture of flag.
Medal of Honor winner John Shanes 1875
John Shanes
Army
E-01 Private
Company K, 14th West Virginia Volunteer Infantry Regiment
Battle of Rutherford's Farm , Virginia
Jul 20, 1864
Charged upon a Confederate fieldpiece in advance of his comrades and by his individual exertions silenced the piece.
Medal of Honor winner John Shapland 1913
John Shapland
Army
E-01 Private
Company D, 104th Illinois Infantry Regiment
Elk River, Tennessee
Jul 2, 1863
Voluntarily joined a small party that, under a heavy fire, captured a stockade and saved the bridge.
—
Hendrick Sharp
Navy
Seaman
USS Richmond
USS Richmond , Fort Morgan , Battle of Mobile Bay , Alabama
Aug 5, 1864
As captain of a 100-pounder rifle gun on topgallant forecastle on board USS Richmond during action against rebel forts and gunboats and with the ram Tennessee in Mobile Bay, 5 August 1864.
—
Joseph H. Shea
Army
E-01 Private
Company K, 92nd New York Volunteer Infantry
Battle of Chaffin's Farm , Virginia
Sep 29, 1864
Gallantry in bringing wounded from the field under heavy fire.
—
John S. Shellenberger
Army
E-04 Corporal
Company B, 85th Pennsylvania Infantry
Deep Run, Virginia
Aug 16, 1864
Capture of flag
Medal of Honor winner Irwin Shepard 1913
Irwin Shepard
Army
E-04 Corporal
Company E, 17th Michigan Infantry
Knoxville, Tennessee
Nov 20, 1863
Having voluntarily accompanied a small party to destroy buildings within the enemy's lines, whence sharpshooters had been firing, disregarded an order to retire, remained and completed the firing of the buildings, thus insuring their total destruction; this at the imminent risk of his life from the fire of the advancing enemy.
Louis C. Shepard
Navy
Ordinary Seaman
USS Wabash
USS Wabash Second Battle of Fort Fisher , North Carolina
Jan 15, 1865
USS Wabash (1855) Served as seaman on board USS Wabash in the assault on Fort Fisher, 15 January 1865.
—
William Shepherd
Army
E-01 Private
Company A, 3rd Indiana Cavalry
Battle of Sayler's Creek , Virginia
Apr 6, 1865
Capture of flag.
—
James Sheridan
Navy
Quartermaster
USS Oneida
USS Oneida Fort Morgan , Battle of Mobile Bay , Alabama
Aug 5, 1864
Served as quartermaster on board USS Oneida in the engagement at Mobile Bay 5 August 1864.
Medal of Honor winner Marshall Sherman 1867
Marshall Sherman
Army
E-01 Private
Company C, 1st Minnesota Infantry
Gettysburg, Pennsylvania
July 3, 1863
Capture of flag of 28th Virginia Infantry (C.S.A.).
—
John Shiel
Army
E-04 Corporal
Company E, 90th Pennsylvania Infantry
Battle of Fredericksburg , Virginia
Dec 13, 1862
Last name sometimes spelled "Shields"
—
Bernard Shields
Army
E-01 Private
Company E, 2nd West Virginia Volunteer Cavalry Regiment
Battle of Appomattox Station , Virginia
Apr 8, 1865
Capture of flag of the Washington Artillery (C.S.A.).
Medal of Honor winner John Shilling 1865
John Shilling
Army
E-05 First Sergeant
Company H, 3rd Delaware Infantry Regiment
Battle of Globe Tavern , Virginia
Aug 21, 1864
Capture of flag.
Medal of Honor winner Robert Frank Shipley 1865
Robert F. Shipley
Army
E-05 Sergeant
Company A, 140th New York Volunteer Infantry Regiment
Battle of Five Forks , Virginia
Apr 1, 1865
Captured the flag of the 9th Virginia Infantry (C.S.A.) in hand-to-hand combat.
—
William Shipman
Navy
Coxswain
USS Ticonderoga
USS Ticonderoga Second Battle of Fort Fisher , North Carolina
Jan 15, 1865
On board USS Ticonderoga in the attack upon Fort Fisher on 15 January 1865.
—
John Shivers
Marine Corps
E-01 Private
USS Minnesota
USS Minnesota Second Battle of Fort Fisher , North Carolina
Jan 15, 1865
On board USS Minnesota , in the assault on Fort Fisher, 15 January 1865.
—
Levi Shoemaker
Army
E-05 Sergeant
Company A, 1st West Virginia Cavalry
Nineveh, Virginia
Nov 12, 1864
Capture of flag of 22d Virginia Cavalry (C.S.A.).
—
George J. Shopp
Army
E-01 Private
Company E, 191st Pennsylvania Infantry
Battle of Five Forks , Virginia
Apr 1, 1865
Capture of flag.
—
Frank Shubert
Army
E-05 Sergeant
Company E, 43rd New York Volunteer Infantry Regiment
Third Battle of Petersburg , Virginia
Apr 2, 1865
Capture of two markers.
—
Henry Shutes
Navy
Captain of the Forecastle
USS Wissahickon
USS Wissahickon
Apr 1862 and Feb 27, 1863
Served as captain of the forecastle on board USS Wissahickon during the battle of New Orleans, 24 and 25 April 1862; and in the engagement at Fort McAllister, 27 February 1863.
Daniel E. Sickles
Army
O-08 Major General
U.S. Volunteers
Battle of Gettysburg , Pennsylvania
Jul 2, 1863
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.
Medal of Honor winner William H Sickles 1913
William Sickles
Army
E-05 Sergeant
Company B, 7th Wisconsin Infantry
Gravelly Run, Virginia
Mar 31, 1865
With a comrade, attempted capture of a stand of Confederate colors and detachment of 9 Confederates, actually taking prisoner 3 members of the detachment, dispersing the remainder, and recapturing a Union officer who was a prisoner in hands of the detachment.
Medal of Honor winner George Dallas Sidman 1865
George D. Sidman
Army
E-01 Private
Company C, 16th Michigan Infantry
Battle of Gaines' Mill , Virginia
Jun 27, 1862
Distinguished bravery in battle. Rallied his comrades to charge vastly superior force until wounded in the hip. He was a 16-year-old drummer.
—
Lebbeus Simkins
Navy
Coxswain
USS Richmond
USS Richmond Fort Morgan , Battle of Mobile Bay , Alabama
Aug 5, 1864
On board USS Richmond during action against rebel forts and gunboats and with the ram Tennessee in Mobile Bay, 5 August 1864.
—
John Simmons
Army
E-01 Private
Company D, 2nd New York Volunteer Heavy Artillery Regiment
Battle of Sayler's Creek , Virginia
Apr 6, 1865
Capture of flag.
Medal of Honor winner William Thomas Simmons 1875
William T. Simmons
Army
O-01 Lieutenant
Company C, 11th Missouri Volunteer Infantry Regiment
Battle of Nashville , Tenn.
Dec 16, 1864
Capture of flag of 34th Alabama Infantry (C.S.A ). Being the first to enter the works, he shot and wounded the enemy color bearer.
William E. Simonds
Army
E-05 Sergeant Major
25th Connecticut Infantry Regiment
Irish Bend, Louisiana
Apr 14, 1863
Displayed great gallantry, under a heavy fire from the enemy, in calling in the skirmishers and assisting in forming the line of battle.
Medal of Honor winner Charles Jenks Simons c1900
Charles J. Simons
Army
E-05 Sergeant
Company A, 9th New Hampshire Volunteer Infantry Regiment
Battle of the Crater , Petersburg, Virginia
Jul 30, 1864
Was one of the first in the exploded mine, captured a number of prisoners. and was himself captured, but escaped.
Medal of Honor winner Ebenezer Skellie 1895
Ebenezer Skellie
Army
E-04 Corporal
Company D, 112th New York Volunteer Infantry
Battle of Chaffin's Farm , Virginia
Sep 29, 1864
Took the colors of his regiment, the color bearer having fallen, and carried them through the first charge; also, in the second charge, after all the color guards had been killed or wounded he carried the colors up to the enemy's works, where he fell wounded.
Medal of Honor winner Joseph Alton Sladen MD 1872
Joseph A. Sladen
Army
E-01 Private
Company A, 33rd Massachusetts Volunteer Infantry Regiment
Battle of Resaca , Georgia
May 14, 1864
While detailed as clerk at headquarters, voluntarily engaged in action at a critical moment and personal example inspired the troops to repel the enemy.
—
Oscar Slagle
Army
E-01 Private
Company D, 104th Illinois Volunteer Infantry Regiment
Elk River, Tennessee
Jul 2, 1863
Voluntarily joined a small party that, under a heavy fire, captured a stockade and saved the bridge.
Samuel Slavens *
Army
E-01 Private
Company E, 33rd Ohio Infantry
Great Locomotive Chase , Georgia
Apr 1862
One of the 19 of 22 men (including 2 civilians) who, by direction of General Mitchell (or Buell), penetrated nearly 200 miles south into enemy territory and captured a railroad train at Big Shanty, Georgia , in an attempt to destroy the bridges and track between Chattanooga and Atlanta.
—
Andrew J. Sloan
Army
E-01 Private
Company H, 12th Iowa Volunteer Infantry Regiment
Battle of Nashville , Tennessee
Dec 16, 1864
Captured flag of 1st Louisiana Battery (C.S.A.).
Medal of Honor winner Henry Craig Slusher 1865
Henry C. Slusher
Army
E-01 Private
Company F, 22nd Pennsylvania Cavalry Regiment
Near Moorefield, West Virginia
Sep 11, 1863
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.
Medal of Honor winner Reuben Smalley 1865
Reuben Smalley
Army
E-01 Private
Company F, 22nd Pennsylvania Cavalry Regiment
Battle of Vicksburg , Mississippi
May 22, 1863
Gallantry in the charge of the "volunteer storming party."
—
Reuben S. Smalley
Army
E-01 Private
Company F, 83rd Indiana Infantry Regiment
Elk River, Tennessee
Jul 2, 1863
Voluntarily joined a small party that, under a heavy fire, captured a stockade and saved the bridge.
Medal of Honor winner Alonzo Smith 1862
Alonzo Smith
Army
E-05 Sergeant
Company C, 7th Michigan Volunteer Infantry Regiment
Battle of Boydton Plank Road , Petersburg, Virginia
Oct 27, 1864
Capture of flag of 26th North Carolina Infantry (C.S.A.), while outside his lines far from his comrades.
Andrew J. Smith *
Army
E-04 Corporal
55th Massachusetts Volunteer Infantry Regiment
Battle of Honey Hill , South Carolina
Nov 30, 1864
For taking up the regimental colors after the color bearer was killed
Charles Henry Smith
Army
O-06 Colonel
1st Maine Volunteer Cavalry Regiment
St. Mary's Church, Virginia
Jun 24, 1864
Remained in the fight to the close, although severely wounded.
—
Charles H. Smith
Navy
Coxswain
USS Rhode Island
USS Rhode Island
Dec 30, 1862
On board USS Rhode Island which was engaged in rescuing men from the stricken Monitor in Mobile Bay, on December 30, 1862.
—
David L. Smith
Army
E-05 Sergeant
Battery E, 1st New York Light Artillery
Warwick Courthouse, Virginia
April 6, 1862
This soldier, when a shell struck an ammunition chest exploding a number of cartridges and setting fire to the packing tow, procured water and extinguished the fire, thus preventing the explosion of the remaining ammunition.
—
Edwin Smith
Navy
Ordinary Seaman
USS Whitehead
USS Whitehead
October 3, 1862
On board USS Whitehead in the attack upon Franklin, Virginia , 3 October 1862.
Medal of Honor winner Francis M Smith GAR 1913
Francis M. Smith
Army
O-02 First Lieutenant and Adjutant
1st Maryland Volunteer Infantry Regiment
Dabney Mills, Virginia
Feb 6, 1865
Voluntarily remained with the body of his regimental commander under a heavy fire after the brigade had retired and brought the body off the field.
Medal of Honor winner Henry Irving Smith 1865
Henry I. Smith
Army
O-02 First Lieutenant
Company B, 7th Iowa Volunteer Infantry Regiment
Black River, North Carolina
Mar 15, 1865
Voluntarily and under fire rescued a comrade from death by drowning.
—
James Smith
Army
E-01 Private
Company I, 2nd Ohio Infantry
Great Locomotive Chase , Georgia
Apr 1862
One of the 19 of 22 men (including 2 civilians) who, by direction of General Mitchell (or Buell), penetrated nearly 200 miles south into enemy territory and captured a railroad train at Big Shanty, Georgia , in an attempt to destroy the bridges and tract between Chattanooga and Atlanta.
—
James Smith
Navy
Captain of the Forecastle
USS Richmond
USS Richmond Fort Morgan , Battle of Mobile Bay , Alabama
Aug 5, 1864
As captain of a gun on board USS Richmond during action against rebel forts and gunboats and with the ram Tennessee , in Mobile Bay, 5 August 1864.
—
John Smith
Navy
Captain of Forecastle
USS Lackawanna
USS Lackawanna , Fort Morgan , Battle of Mobile Bay , Alabama
Aug 5, 1864
On board USS Lackawanna during the successful attacks against Fort Morgan, rebel gunboats and the ram Tennessee in Mobile Bay, 5 August 1864.
—
John Smith
Navy
Second Captain of the Top
USS Richmond
USS Richmond Fort Morgan , Battle of Mobile Bay , Alabama
Aug 5, 1864
As captain of a gun on board USS Richmond during action against rebel forts and gunboats and with the ram Tennessee in Mobile Bay, 5 August 1864.
Joseph S. Smith
Army
O-05 Lieutenant Colonel and Commissary of Subsistence
II Corps , Army of the Potomac
Battle of Boydton Plank Road , Petersburg, Virginia
Oct 27, 1864
Led a part of a brigade, saved 2 pieces of artillery, captured a flag, and secured a number of prisoners.
—
Oloff Smith
Navy
Coxswain
USS Richmond
USS Richmond Fort Morgan , Battle of Mobile Bay , Alabama
Aug 5, 1864
On board USS Richmond during action against rebel forts and gunboats and with the ram Tennessee in Mobile Bay, 5 August 1864
Medal of Honor winner Otis W Smith 1920
Otis W. Smith
Army
E-01 Private
Company G, 95th Ohio Infantry
Battle of Nashville , Tennessee
Dec 16, 1864
Capture of flag of 6th Florida Infantry (C.S.A.).
Medal of Honor winner Richard Smith GAR 1913
Richard Smith
Army
E-01 Private
Company B, 95th New York Volunteer Infantry
Battle of Globe Tavern , Virginia
Aug 21, 1864
Captured 2 officers and 20 men of Hagood's brigade while they were endeavoring to make their way back through the woods.
Medal of Honor winner Samuel Rodmond Smith 1865
S. Rodmond Smith
Army
O-03 Captain
Company C, 4th Delaware Infantry Regiment
Rowanty Creek, Virginia
Feb 5, 1865
Swam the partly frozen creek under fire to establish a crossing.
—
Thaddeus S. Smith
Army
E-04 Corporal
Company E, 6th Pennsylvania Reserve Regiment
Gettysburg, Pennsylvania
July 2, 1863
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.
—
Thomas Smith
Navy
Seaman
USS Magnolia
USS Magnolia
Mar 5, 1865 – Mar 6, 1865
As seaman on board USS Magnolia , St. Marks, Florida, 5 and 6 March 1865.
—
Walter B. Smith
Navy
Ordinary Seaman
USS Richmond
USS Richmond Fort Morgan , Battle of Mobile Bay , Alabama
Aug 5, 1864
On board USS Richmond during action against rebel forts and gunboats and with the ram Tennessee in Mobile Bay, 5 August 1864.
—
Willard M. Smith
Marine Corps
E-04 Corporal
USS Brooklyn
USS Brooklyn Fort Morgan , Battle of Mobile Bay , Alabama
Aug 5, 1864
On board USS Brooklyn during action against rebel forts and gunboats, and with the ram Tennessee in Mobile Bay, 5 August 1864.
William Smith
Navy
Quartermaster
USS Kearsarge
USS Kearsarge
June 19, 1864
Served as second quartermaster on board USS Kearsarge when she destroyed Alabama off Cherbourg, France, 19 June 1864.
Medal of Honor winner Wilson Smith 1875
Wilson Smith
Army
E-04 Corporal
Battery H, 3rd New York Light Artillery
Washington, North Carolina
Sep 6, 1862
Took command of a gun (the lieutenant in charge having disappeared) and fired the same so rapidly and effectively that the enemy was repulsed, although for a time a hand-to-hand conflict was had over the gun.
Medal of Honor winner James Snedden GAR 1913
James Snedden
Army
Musician
Company E, 54th Pennsylvania Infantry
Piedmont, Virginia
Jun 5, 1864
Left his place in the rear, took the rifle of a disabled soldier, and fought through the remainder of the action.[ 2]
—
David Southard
Army
E-05 Sergeant
Company C, 1st New Jersey Cavalry
Deatonsville (Sailor's Creek ), Virginia
Apr 6, 1865
Capture of flag; and was the first man over the works in the charge.
—
Joseph E. Sova
Army
Saddler
Company H, 8th New York Volunteer Cavalry Regiment
Appomattox Campaign, Virginia
Mar 29, 1865 – Apr 9, 1865
Capture of flag.
Medal of Honor winner Michael Sowers 1864
Michael Sowers
Army
E-01 Private
Company L, 4th Pennsylvania Cavalry
Stony Creek Station, Virginia
Dec 1, 1864
His horse having been shot from under him he voluntarily and on foot participated in the cavalry charge made upon one of the forts, conducting himself throughout with great personal bravery.
Medal of Honor winner Edward Burson Spalding 1885
Edward B. Spalding
Army
E-05 Sergeant
Company E, 52nd Illinois Infantry Regiment
Battle of Shiloh , Tennessee
Apr 6, 1862
Although twice wounded, and thereby crippled for life, he remained fighting in open ground to the close of the battle.
Medal of Honor winner William Joseph Sperry 1865
William J. Sperry
Army
O-04 Major
6th Vermont Infantry
Third Battle of Petersburg , Virginia
Apr 2, 1865
With the assistance of a few men, captured 2 pieces of artillery and turned them upon the enemy.
—
Timothy Spillane
Army
E-01 Private
Company C, 16th Pennsylvania Cavalry
Battle of Hatcher's Run , Virginia
Feb 5, 1865 – Feb 7, 1865
Gallantry and good conduct in action; bravery in a charge and reluctance to leave the field after being twice wounded.
Medal of Honor winner Benona Sprague c1900
Benona Sprague
Army
E-04 Corporal
Company F, 116th Illinois Volunteer Infantry Regiment
Battle of Vicksburg , Mississippi
May 22, 1863
Gallantry in the charge of the "volunteer storming party."
John W. Sprague
Army
O-04 Colonel
63rd Ohio Infantry Regiment
Decatur, Georgia
Jul 22, 1864
With a small command defeated an overwhelming force of the enemy and saved the trains of the corps.
—
David Sprowle
Marine Corps
E-06 Orderly Sergeant
USS Richmond (1860)
USS Richmond (1860) Fort Morgan , Battle of Mobile Bay , Alabama
Aug 5, 1864
On board USS Richmond (1860) during action against rebel forts and gunboats, and with the ram Tennessee in Mobile Bay, 5 August 1864.
Medal of Honor winner Andrew Barclay Spurling 1865
Andrew B. Spurling
Army
O-05 Lieutenant Colonel
2nd Maine Volunteer Cavalry
Evergreen, Alabama
Mar 23, 1865
Advanced alone in the darkness beyond the picket line, came upon three of the enemy, fired upon them (his fire being returned), wounded two, and captured the whole party.
Charles Stacey
Army
E-01 Private
Company D, 55th Ohio Infantry
Battle of Gettysburg , Pennsylvania
Jul 2, 1863
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.
Julius Stahel
Army
O-08 Major General
2nd Division, Army of the Shenandoah
Piedmont, Virginia
Jun 5, 1864
Led his division into action until he was severely wounded.
David S. Stanley
Army
O-08 Major General
IV Corps , Army of the Ohio
Second Battle of Franklin , Tennessee
Nov 30, 1864
At a critical moment rode to the front of one of his brigades, reestablished its lines, and gallantly led it In a successful assault.
—
William A. Stanley
Navy
Shell Man
USS Hartford
USS Hartford Fort Morgan , Battle of Mobile Bay , Alabama
Aug 5, 1864
Shell man on No. 8 on board USS Hartford during successful actions against Fort Morgan, rebel gunboats and the ram Tennessee in Mobile Bay, on 5 August 1864.
—
John H. Starkins
Army
E-05 Sergeant
34th New York Battery
Campbell Station, Tennessee
Nov 16, 1863
Brought off his piece without losing a man.
Medal of Honor winner John Whedon Steele 1865
John W. Steele
Army
O-04 Major and Aide de Camp
Army of the Ohio
Spring Hill, Tenn.
Nov 29, 1864
During a night attack of the enemy upon the wagon and ammunition train of this officer's corps, he gathered up a force of stragglers and others, assumed command of it, though himself a staff officer, and attacked and dispersed the enemy's forces, thus saving the train.
—
William Steinmetz
Army
E-01 Private
Company G, 83rd Indiana Infantry Regiment
Battle of Vicksburg , Mississippi
May 22, 1863
Gallantry in the charge of the "volunteer storming party."
—
William G. Stephens
Army
E-01 Private
Chicago Mercantile Battery, Illinois Light Artillery
Battle of Vicksburg , Mississippi
May 22, 1863
Carried with others by hand a cannon up to and fired it through an embrasure of the enemy's works.
—
James E. Sterling
Navy
Coal Heaver
USS Brooklyn
USS Brooklyn Fort Morgan , Battle of Mobile Bay , Alabama
Aug 5, 1864
On board USS Brooklyn during successful attacks against Fort Morgan, rebel gunboats and the ram Tennessee in Mobile Bay, on 5 August 1864.
—
John T. Sterling
Army
E-01 Private
Company D, 11th Indiana Infantry
Battle of Opequon , Virginia
Sep 19, 1864
With one companion captured 14 of the enemy in the severest part of the battle.
Daniel D. Stevens
Navy
Quartermaster
USS Canonicus
USS Canonicus Second Battle of Fort Fisher , North Carolina
Jan 13, 1865
Onboard USS Canonicus , for twice replacing his ship's flag after it had been shot away by heavy enemy fire.
Hazard Stevens
Army
O-03 Captain and Assistant Adjutant General
79th New York Volunteer Infantry
Battle of Fort Huger , Virginia
Apr 19, 1863
Gallantly led a party that assaulted and captured the fort.
—
George W. Stewart
Army
E-06 First Sergeant
Company E, 1st New Jersey Cavalry
Paines Crossroads, Virginia
Apr 5, 1865
Capture of flag.
—
Joseph Stewart
Army
E-01 Private
Company G, 1st Maryland Infantry Regiment (Union)
Five Forks, Virginia
April 1, 1865
Capture of flag.
—
Joseph Stickels
Army
E-05 Sergeant
Company A, 83rd Ohio Infantry
Fort Blakely, Alabama
April 9, 1865
Capture of flag.
Medal of Honor winner George Henry Stockman 1865
George H. Stockman
Army
O-02 First Lieutenant
Company C, 6th Missouri Volunteer Infantry Regiment
Battle of Vicksburg , Mississippi
May 22, 1863
Gallantry in the charge of the "volunteer storming party."
—
James Stoddard
Navy
Seaman
USS Marmora
Aboard USS Marmora , off Yazoo City, Mississippi
March 5, 1864
Disembarking from USS Marmora with a 12-pound howitzer mounted on a field carriage, Stoddard landed with the gun and crew in the midst of heated battle and, bravely standing by his gun despite enemy rifle fire which cut the gun carriage and rammer, contributed to the turning back of the enemy during the fierce engagement.
—
George Stokes
Army
E-01 Private
Company C, 122nd Illinois Infantry Regiment
Battle of Nashville , Tennessee
Dec 16, 1864
Capture of flag.
Medal of Honor winner Frank Stolz 1875
Frank Stolz
Army
E-01 Private
Company G, 83rd Indiana Volunteer Infantry Regiment
Battle of Vicksburg , Mississippi
May 22, 1863
Gallantry in the charge of the "volunteer storming party."
Medal of Honor winner John Hamilton Reid Storey 1896
John H. R. Storey
Army
E-05 Sergeant
Company F, 109th Pennsylvania Infantry
Dallas, Georgia
May 28, 1864
While bringing in a wounded comrade, under a destructive fire, he was himself wounded in the right leg, which was amputated on the same day.
Richard Stout
Navy
Landsman
USS Isaac Smith
USS Isaac Smith
January 30, 1863
Serving on board USS Isaac Smith , Stono River, 30 January 1863. While reconnoitering on the Stono River on this date USS Isaac Smith became trapped in a rebel ambush.
—
Robert Strahan
Navy
Captain of the Top
USS Kearsarge
USS Kearsarge
June 19, 1864
Served as captain of the top on board USS Kearsarge when she destroyed Alabama off Cherbourg, France, 19 June 1864.
—
Bernard A. Strausbaugh
Army
E-08 First Sergeant
Company A, 3rd Maryland Infantry Regiment
Second Battle of Petersburg , Virginia
Jun 17, 1864
Recaptured the colors of 2d Pennsylvania Provisional Artillery.
—
Christian Streile
Army
E-01 Private
Company I, 1st New Jersey Cavalry Regiment
Paines Crossroads, Virginia
Apr 5, 1865
Capture of flag.
—
James N. Strong
Army
E-05 Sergeant
Company C, 49th Massachusetts Infantry Regiment
Port Hudson, Louisiana
May 27, 1863
Volunteered in response to a call and took part in the movement that was made upon the enemy's works under a heavy fire therefrom in advance of the general assault.
Medal of Honor winner James Knox Sturgeon 1885
James K. Sturgeon
Army
E-01 Private
Company F, 46th Ohio Infantry
Kenesaw Mountain, Georgia
Jun 15, 1864
Advanced beyond the lines, and in an encounter with three Confederates, shot two and took the other prisoner.
—
James Sullivan
Navy
Ordinary Seaman
USS Agawam
USS Agawam Battle of Fort Fisher , North Carolina
December 2, 1864
On board USS Agawam as one of a volunteer crew of a powder boat which was exploded near Fort Fisher, 2 December 1864.
—
John Sullivan
Navy
Seaman
USS Monticello
USS Monticello
Jun 23, 1864 – Jun 25, 1864
Served as seaman on board USS Monticello during the reconnaissance of the harbor and water defenses of Wilmington, North Carolina 23 to 25 June 1864.
—
Timothy Sullivan
Navy
Coxswain
USS Louisville
USS Louisville
Various
Served on board USS Louisville during various actions of that vessel. During the engagements of Louisville , Sullivan served as first captain of a 9-inch gun and throughout his period of service was "especially commended for his attention to duty, bravery, and coolness in action."
—
James C. Summers
Army
E-01 Private
Company H, 4th West Virginia Infantry Regiment
Battle of Vicksburg , Mississippi
May 22, 1863
Gallantry in charge of the "volunteer storming party."
Medal of Honor winner Robert Emil Summers GAR 1913
Robert Summers
Navy
Chief Quartermaster
USS Ticonderoga
USS Ticonderoga Second Battle of Fort Fisher , North Carolina
Jan 15, 1865
Summers served on board USS Ticonderoga in the attacks on Fort Fisher, 13 to 15 January 1865.
Medal of Honor winner William H Surles 1885
William H. Surles
Army
E-01 Private
Company G, 2nd Ohio Infantry
Perryville, Kentucky
Oct 8, 1862
In the hottest part of the fire he stepped in front of his colonel to shield him from the enemy's fire.
—
Charles A. Swan
Army
E-01 Private
Company K, 4th Iowa Cavalry
Selma, Alabama
April 2, 1865
Capture of flag supposed to be 11th Mississippi, C.S.A., and bearer.
—
John Swanson
Navy
Seaman
USS Santiago de Cuba
USS Santiago de Cuba Second Battle of Fort Fisher , North Carolina
Jan 15, 1865
On board USS Santiago de Cuba during the assault on Fort Fisher on 15 January 1865.
Medal of Honor winner Jacob E Swap GAR 1900
Jacob E. Swap
Army
E-01 Private
Company H, 83rd Pennsylvania Infantry
Battle of the Wilderness , Virginia
May 5, 1864
Although assigned to other duty, he voluntarily joined his regiment in a charge and fought with it until severely wounded.
—
Edward Swatton
Navy
Seaman
USS Santiago de Cuba
USS Santiago de Cuba Second Battle of Fort Fisher , North Carolina
Jan 15, 1865
On board USS Santiago de Cuba during the assault on Fort Fisher on 15 January 1865.
Wager Swayne
Army
O-05 Lieutenant Colonel
43rd Ohio Infantry
Second Battle of Corinth , Mississippi
Oct 4, 1862
Conspicuous gallantry in restoring order at a critical moment and leading his regiment in a charge.
Benjamin Swearer
Navy
Seaman
USS Pawnee
USS Pawnee
August 29, 1861
Embarked in a surfboat from USS Pawnee during action against Fort Clark, off Baltimore Inlet, 29 August 1861.
Medal of Honor winner Joseph Sewell-Gerrish Sweatt GAR 1913
Joseph S. G. Sweatt
Army
E-01 Private
Company C, 6th Massachusetts Volunteer Militia
Carrsville, Virginia
May 15, 1863
When ordered to retreat this soldier turned and rushed back to the front, in the face of heavy fire of the enemy, in an endeavor to rescue his wounded comrades, remaining by them until overpowered and taken prisoner.
—
James Sweeney
Army
E-01 Private
Company A, 1st Vermont Cavalry
Battle of Cedar Creek , Virginia
Oct 19, 1864
With one companion captured the State flag of a North Carolina regiment, together with three officers and an ambulance with its mules and driver.
Medal of Honor winner Jacob Swegheimer GAR 1913
Jacob Swegheimer
Army
E-01 Private
Company I, 54th Ohio Infantry
Battle of Vicksburg , Mississippi
May 22, 1863
Gallantry in the charge of the "volunteer storming party."
—
Frederick W. Swift
Army
O-05 Lieutenant Colonel
17th Michigan Infantry
Lenoire Station, Tennessee
Nov 16, 1863
Gallantly seized the colors and rallied the regiment after three color bearers had been shot and the regiment, having become demoralized, was in imminent danger of capture.
—
Harlan J. Swift
Army
O-01 Second Lieutenant
Company H, 2nd New York Militia Regiment
Battle of the Crater , Petersburg, Virginia
Jul 30, 1864
Having advanced with his regiment and captured the enemy's line, saw four of the enemy retiring toward their second line of works. He advanced upon them alone, compelled their surrender and regained his regiment with the four prisoners.
—
Peter Sype
Army
E-01 Private
Company B, 47th Ohio Infantry
Battle of Vicksburg , Mississippi
May 3, 1863
Was one of a party that volunteered and attempted to run the enemy's batteries with a steam tug and 2 barges loaded with subsistence stores.
See also
Notes
^ Seward's name was incorrectly listed as "Richard E. Seward" on his citation.
References
Information related to List of American Civil War Medal of Honor recipients: Q–S