Medal of Honor: The Firsts

We will be writing stories about the first recipients of the Medal of Honor, by war.

Civil War

During the Civil War, efforts by Senator James Grimes and Secretary of the Navy Gideon Welles to inspire sailors to valorous service led to the creation of the Medal of Honor in December 1861. Legislation authorizing a similar medal for soldiers in the army followed in 1862.

The very first Medal of Honor was awarded in 1863 during the Civil War. It was presented to Union Private Jacob Parrott, Company K,  33d Ohio Infantry, for his part in “The Great Locomotive Chase” that ended just outside of Chattanooga, Tennessee.

Parrott was one of 24 men who sought to steal a confederate locomotive (eventually “The General” and conduct raids to wreak havoc within Confederate lines. The great chase is also known as “Wilson’s Raid” due to the leadership of 27-year-old General James H. Wilson,

The raid eventually failed though Wilson and his raiders were able to do considerable damage to tracks and infrastructure. Several of the raiders, including Wilson, were executed. Parrott ended up in prison where he was beaten and tortured.

After a prisoner exchange, Parrott remained in the service and eventually became a Lieutenant. On March 25, 1863, based on his time in prison and the harshness of his treatment, Parrottt was awarded the first ever Medal of Honor.

"The General" Photo courtesy of Southern Museum of Civil War and Locomotive History.