Congressional Medal of Honor Society
Stories of Sacrifice
U.S. Civil War - U.S. Navy
Augustus Williams
Details
- Rank: Seaman
- Conflict/Era: U.S. Civil War
- Unit/Command:
U.S.S. Santiago de Cuba - Military Service Branch: U.S. Navy
- Medal of Honor Action Date: January 15, 1865
- Medal of Honor Action Place: Fort Fisher, North Carolina, USA
Citation
On board the U.S.S. Santiago de Cuba during the assault by the fleet on Fort Fisher, 15 January 1865. When the landing party to which he was attached charged on the fort with a cheer, and with determination to plant their colors on the ramparts, Williams remained steadfast when they reached the foot of the fort and more than two-thirds of the marines and sailors fell back in panic. Taking cover when the enemy concentrated his fire on the remainder of the group, he alone remained with his executive officer, subsequently withdrawing from the field after dark.
Additional Details
- Accredited to: Massachusetts
- Awarded Posthumously: No
- Born: 1842, Kristiansand, Norway
- Died:
- Location of Medal: Naval Historical Center, Washington Navy Yard, Washington, DC