Benjamin Gifford (September 13, 1833 - July 14, 1901) was an American soldier who fought in the American Civil War. Gifford received his country's highest award for bravery during combat, the Medal of Honor.[1] Gifford's medal was won for his capturing the flag during the Battle of Sailor's Creek on April 6, 1865.[1] He was honored with the award on May 10, 1865.[2]

Benjamin Gifford
BornSeptember 13, 1833
German Flatts, New York
DiedJuly 14, 1901
Buried
Allegiance United States of America
Service/branch United States Army
Years of service1862 - 1865
RankPrivate
UnitNew York (state) Company H, 121st New York Volunteer Infantry
Battles/warsBattle of Sailor's Creek
American Civil War
Awards Medal of Honor

Gifford was born in German Flatts, New York. He joined the Army in August 1862, and mustered out with his regiment in June 1865.[3] Gifford was buried in Hinsdale, New York.[1]

Medal of Honor citation edit

The President of the United States of America, in the name of Congress, takes pleasure in presenting the Medal of Honor to Private Benjamin Gifford, United States Army, for extraordinary heroism on 6 April 1865, while serving with Company H, 121st New York Infantry, in action at Deatonsville (Sailor's Creek), Virginia, for capture of flag.[1]

See also edit

References edit

  1. ^ a b c d "Benjamin Gifford". Archived from the original on July 14, 2014. Retrieved June 6, 2014.
  2. ^ "Civil War (G-L) Medal of Honor Recipients". Archived from the original on June 6, 2014. Retrieved June 6, 2014.
  3. ^ Regimental Roster