The Civil War, fought from 1861 to 1865, was a pivotal moment in American history, marked not only by its significant political and social implications but also by the medals and awards bestowed upon its participants. These Civil War Union medals are tangible reminders of the bravery, sacrifice, and service of the men and women who fought for the preservation of the Union and the abolition of slavery.
Civil War Union Medals: An Overview
Civil War Union medals were awarded to recognize acts of valor, meritorious service, and faithful performance of duty. They were typically made of bronze, silver, or gold, with some medals featuring enamel work or intricate engravings. The most prestigious of these medals were the Medal of Honor, the Army of Tennessee Medal, and the Navy Medal of Valor.
Medal of Honor: The Highest Distinction
The Medal of Honor is the highest award for valor that a soldier can receive. During the Civil War, it was known as the Medal of Valor and was awarded to soldiers who distinguished themselves by conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of their own lives above and beyond the call of duty. Over 1,500 Medals of Honor were awarded during the Civil War, with many recipients receiving the medal posthumously.
Civil War Medal of Honor Recipients
Some of the most notable Civil War Medal of Honor recipients include Alonzo Cushing, who heroically defended a battery at the Battle of Gettysburg despite being mortally wounded, and William Harvey Carney, the first African American to receive the Medal of Honor, who saved the American flag during the Battle of Fort Wagner.
Army of Tennessee Medal
The Army of Tennessee Medal was awarded to soldiers who served in the Army of Tennessee for at least 180 days or participated in three major battles. The medal features a bust of General Robert E. Lee on the obverse and a wreath on the reverse. It was one of the most common Civil War Union medals, with an estimated 90,000 medals issued.
Navy Medal of Valor
The Navy Medal of Valor was awarded to sailors who distinguished themselves by acts of valor in combat. The medal features a bust of President Abraham Lincoln on the obverse and an anchor on the reverse. It was awarded less frequently than the Army of Tennessee Medal, with only around 3,000 medals issued.
Other Civil War Union Medals
In addition to the Medal of Honor, Army of Tennessee Medal, and Navy Medal of Valor, several other Civil War Union medals were awarded. These include the Kearny Cross, awarded to soldiers who served in the Army of the Potomac, and the Thomas Cross, awarded to soldiers who served in the Army of the Cumberland. Additionally, soldiers who were wounded or captured in action could receive the Wound Badge or the Prisoner of War Medal.
Civil War Union Medals for Meritorious Service
Civil War Union medals were not limited to acts of valor. Soldiers who performed meritorious service could also receive medals. The Most Meritorious Service Medal was awarded to soldiers who performed exceptional service in non-combat roles, such as engineers, quartermasters, and surgeons. The Certificate of Merit was a paper award that recognized soldiers for acts of bravery, meritorious service, or faithful performance of duty.
Preserving Civil War Union Medals: A Final Thought
Civil War Union medals are not only historical artifacts but also powerful symbols of the courage and sacrifice of the men and women who served during the conflict. As such, they deserve to be preserved, studied, and appreciated. Whether displayed in museums, worn by descendants, or collected by enthusiasts, these medals serve as a reminder of the significant role they played in shaping American history.