Was there a Medal of Honor in the Civil War?

As the only military award authorized during the American Civil War, the Medal of Honor was presented for meritorious actions that would not necessarily be recognized by the Armed Services today. Search the Civil War Soldiers and Sailors System to find the men who were accorded this military decoration.

Did any African Americans receive the Medal of Honor in the Civil War?

American Civil War. Twenty-six African Americans earned the Medal of Honor during the American Civil War, including eight sailors of the Union Navy, fifteen soldiers of the United States Colored Troops, and three soldiers of other Army units.

Who received the Medal of Honor in the Civil War?

Image	Name	Date of action
—	James Allen	Sep 14, 1862
Nathaniel M. Allen	Jul 2, 1863
Adelbert Ames	Jul 21, 1861
—	Robert W. Ammerman	May 12, 1864

What is one fact about the Medal of Honor?

The Medal of Honor was established by a joint resolution of Congress in July 1862, and was first issued during the Civil War. The first Medal of Honor was awarded to Army Pvt. Jacob Parrot, and five others, on March 25, 1863, for their service in the Civil War. To date, there have been 3,473 Medals of Honor awarded.

Why are there 3 different designs of the Medal of Honor?

There are three different types of Medal of Honor today: the original star shape established in 1861, which the Navy, Marine Corps and Coast Guard have retained; a wreath version designed in 1904 for the Army; and an altered wreath version for the Air Force, adopted in 1965.

What does a Medal of Honor get?

A special Medal of Honor pension of $1,406.73 (effective date: December 1, 2020) per month above and beyond any other benefits including pensions. A special supplemental clothing allowance of $841.36. Free lifelong travel on DoD military aircraft as a priority “Space-A” traveler.